Traders in Deal are opposing a licensing application for a burger van along the promenade.

The application requests street trading consent to sell burgers, hot dogs, salads and hot and cold drinks along the seafront, opposite The Bohemian.

This would allow the business to trade every day from 8am until 11pm.

Gary Holmes, who runs Route One Cycle Cafe, in the former toilets on the seafront, said the business could be detrimental to the area. He said: “The last few years have seen considerable improvements along the seafront with many businesses investing substantial amounts of money to facilitate this.

“My fellow directors and I have also financed the development of a near-derelict building adjacent to the Royal Hotel and fear that this van, which will effectively be ‘next door’, can only devalue our efforts.”

Earlier this year, business partners Gary Holmes and Nick Stevens took over the building, which was previously used as a storage area for Deal Angling Club headquarters.

“A burger van would cast a huge ‘shadow’ over other businesses trading in the area.” - Mr Stevens.

They have spent the last three months transforming it into a venue for cyclists and visitors to the town.

Mr Holmes, vice-chairman of Deal Tri sports club, said: “We have strived to ensure that our project complements the surrounding area and is in keeping with the architecture and ever-improving feel of the town.

“Other local traders have also invested in improving buildings and developing businesses, all of which pay rates to help protect and enhance Deal’s charm which, in turn, increases the footfall to our town.

“It is our opinion that a burger van, which presumably pays low rates to trade and perhaps uses either a portable generator or the vehicle’s engine to operate, would deter future investment along our wonderful coastline and additionally add to air pollution and noise, detracting from its appeal.”

Mr Stevens added: “The major reason that Deal, and the seafront in particular, is developing such an excellent reputation both locally, nationally and internationally, is as a unique visitor experience.

“A burger van would cast a huge ‘shadow’ over other businesses trading in the area.”

Representations can be made to Dover District Council before Thursday, October 29.