Plans to build a community space among new homes have been scrapped - to build more homes.

Peker Holdings hoped to build 162-flats at the former Springfield Library site in Sandling Road, Maidstone most of which would be inside a 15-storey building.

The developer called a meeting with Maidstone Borough Council in December, after plans, which showed no provision for affordable housing, looked set to be refused.

After the meeting the developer submitted new plans.

The revision sees plans for 429sqm of community space dropped and replaced with eight more homes - bringing the total up to 170.

Despite the rise in homes, the number of proposed parking spaces has dropped from 86 to 85.

Peker Holdings now hopes to make 10% of the development affordable, far less than MBC's local plan recommendation of 30%.

Developers pledge to spend £239,760 on local open spaces.

The development has been designed to run in a zig-zag shape.

New plans have reduced the height of two buildings in the development, but not the 15-storey block, while balconies' width have also been reduced.

Outline planning permission to build over the Springfield Library, which has been demolished, was first granted in 2009 and renewed five years later.

After the scheme fell through, Kent County Council sold the land on to Peker Holdings for £2.8million.

North ward councillor Tony Harwood sits on MBC's planning committee.

He said: "Clearly there is little room for manouvere on this site because of the local plan designation.

"What's important is we minimise any negative impact on existing residents while making sure future residents have a decent, sustainable home to live in.

"I was one of the prime movers in ensuring the deferal to initially seek improvements, I see this as another stepping stone."

To view the amended planning application visit Maidstone Borough Council's planning portal and use reference 17/504568.