One of Sheppey's popular clubs could be demolished to make way for 12 flats.

An application has been lodged with Swale council to bulldoze the Ivy Leaf in the heart of Sheerness.

If agreed, the private members' club would be replaced by a three-storey building of six one-bedroom flats and two blocks of two-bedroom units with space for 11 cars.

The entrance would be in Delamark Road. There is pedestrian access via Hotel Passage which links the club to the High Street.

There has been one comment so far from neighbours in Delamark Road who fear they will be overlooked.

The application has been put together by Maidstone-based Prime Building Consultants on behalf of Gary Easdown of Rochester firm Colonial Ltd.

The club has been run by Sheppey businessman Colin Barrett who had tried to convert it into a pie and mash restaurant. Before that, it was a venue for live bands.

Agent Diana de Bela Novo says the new building will mimic an industrial warehouse "or wharf-look" which previously occupied the site.

She said: "We believe the proposal matches the surrounding buildings and at the same time gives a smart and fresh look to this area."

The top of the building will not be visible from the Broadway, High Street or Beach Street, she said.

Developers say closing down the club will not affect customers. They say there are a sufficient alternative drinking establishments within the town and add: "The loss of one would not lead to a seriously harmful shortfall in provision."

They say the site as it stands does not reflect a safe, happy community. They say: "Broken glass, barbed wire and long, dark alleyways make the site feel unsafe and potentially dangerous.

"The proposed development will be made secure by design and is why a robust courtyard has been included."

They add there have been nine crimes reported near the site over the past six months and say: "An upgraded redevelopment could only bring a positive change with greater natural surveillance."

To comment on the proposals visit Swale council's planning website and search for 19/504736/FULL.

Read more: All the latest news from the Isle of Sheppey