A disused nursery in Gillingham could become a large HMO.

Plans have been submitted to build a 30-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO) on the corner of Marlborough Road and Brompton Road.

The site, previously used as a nursery for 50 children, has sat empty since a fire broke out in 2009.

Several arson attacks occurred in later years, leaving the building in substantial disrepair.

The proposal, put forward by Afaad Investment Properties Ltd, would see part of the fire-damaged building torn down to make way for a single-storey extension.

Only four living rooms, two kitchens and small communal gardens would be provided for the 30-bed facility.

No car parking spaces are also proposed.

The HMO would be designed as ‘chalet-style’ blocks with pitched roofs, vertical timber cladding and brickwork.

The site was sold at auction for £224,000 in March 2021.

Planning permission was granted prior to the sale for the construction of a single-storey nursery school, but this never materialised.

A decision on the planning application is expected by 25 October.

View and comment on the plans on Medway Council’s Planning Portal by clicking here.