Planning permission sought for affordable flats and supported living facility at Kesson House, in Northfleet

New CGIs have been released for plans to redevelop a former and now empty care home.

The final proposals for Kesson House, in Northfleet, have been submitted to Gravesham council almost a year after residents were given a first look at the scheme.

The care home was closed following a CQC report. Picture: Simon Hildrew

Applicant Mark Felton has asked for permission to demolish the annex and extensions to the original property to make way for a new extension.

He then wants to use the historic building to create nine, one-bedroom units for supported living for young adults with learning disabilities, autism, brain injuries and behavioural issues and overnight staff accommodation.

Mr Felton, who represents Impact Developments Gravesend Ltd, is also seeking permission to build two blocks for four one-bedroom and 16 two-bedroom affordable flats.

Landscaping, 21 car, six motorbike, 10 cycle and two visitor parking spaces have also been drawn into the plans.

According to the submitted design and access statement, the developers have designed the scheme alongside Kent County Council’s care commissioning board, housing association Golden Lane Housing and care provider Look Ahead.

Kesson House will be used to provide supporting living for young adults. Picture: Atelier-SM Architects/Planning Portal
Landscaping and parking have been drawn up into the scheme. Picture: Atelier-SM Architects/Planning Portal

The report said the agencies agreed there is “great potential” to use Kesson House for supported living to meet the current “high levels of demand”.

It added: “Essentially, the scheme makes use of a brownfield site, removing outdated and not fit for re-use buildings with modern, compliant, and desirable new dwellings.

“At the same time, the proposals refurbish and reuse a historical local landmark, bringing it back into effective social use with realistic legacy options for the future.”

A decision on the plans is expected by September 4.

Kesson House will be refurbished. Picture: Atelier-SM Architects/Planning Portal
Two blocks of affordable flats could be built if approved. Picture: Atelier-SM Architects/Planning Portal

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Kesson House, which sits on the junction with Council Avenue and East and West Kent Avenue, dates back to the 1840s.

The Georgian mansion built as a seven-bedroom house with servant quarters and was bought in 1920 by the Northfleet Urban District Council and converted into a town hall.

In 1958 it was extended - which Mr Felton is seeking to demolish - and eventually used as a care home.

Kesson House has been empty since 2020. Picture: Atelier-SM Architects/Planning Portal
What the scheme could look like if given the green light. Picture: Atelier-SM Architects/Planning Portal

It was closed down in 2020 following a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection which found multiple failings including inadequate care and leadership.

The report found residents' safety was at risk, coronavirus infection guidance had not been followed and one person had been assaulted.

Managers at RCH Care Homes took the decision to close the service - which had provided care to 27 people with a range of complex health needs, including dementia, or those aged over 65.