Major plans to build 1,500 homes, shops, restaurants and workspaces on the river in Gravesend have been approved.

Albion Waterside, a development set to transform the disused canal basin area, was unanimously voted through by the planning committee on Wednesday.

The project will see six flat-blocks of up to 23-storeys high built, along with 4,500sqm of space for local businesses, and an extension of the current promenade by 350m.

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Craig Carson, Development Director for Joseph Holmes, who are behind the plans, said: “We are thrilled that Gravesham Borough Council voted unanimously in favour to grant planning permission for Albion Waterside.

“Our masterplan regeneration for this site is one we’ve worked on with our brilliant project team JTP LLP, Barton Willmore, Ramboll, Caneparo Associates, Montagu Evans and BDP Landscape to ensure that we will deliver a vibrant and truly sustainable neighbourhood for Gravesend.

“From the outset our vision has been to bring forward a transformative development in this part of Gravesend improving access to the River, while creating a sense of place through new homes, improved public realm and exciting new facilities, such as restaurants and cafes.

“We are delighted with the decision taken by Gravesham Borough Council and we look forward to continuing working with local residents, businesses and the Council in delivering these proposals."

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/The homes built will range in size and number - 561 one bedroom, 797 two bedroom and 142 three bedroom.

Just 11 per cent of the homes will be available through affordable schemes such as shared ownership or social rents.

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More than 65 per cent of the site will be open space, an amount equivalent to five football pitches.

A dedicated shuttle bus service travelling to the town centre is planned, arriving every 10-20 minutes.

It is expected that the project will take around 12 years to complete.