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Medway Autos, London Road, Rainham, could become wedding venue

A disused car showroom could be transformed into a wedding venue with a banqueting hall and guest accommodation.

A planning application has been submitted to convert the old Medway Autos garage and workshop on the A2 at Rainham .

It has been empty for more than 10 years, despite numerous attempts to find a buyer.

If granted, the proposal would include a commercial kitchen, eight rooms for guests, along with a a bridal suite and a wedding gazebo on the 0.55 hectare site in the London Road.

Swale council refused planning permission last September on the grounds there was not enough information to satisfy it would not impact on local amenities in the nearby residential area.

There were also concerns about noise, smell and potential traffic problems.

A revised scheme was again turned down in February because it failed to provide enough on-site parking which could result in vehicles overspilling onto the busy road.

Swale council will decide on the application as it just falls in its boundaries
Swale council will decide on the application as it just falls in its boundaries

The principle use of the building would be a mix of offices, food preparation, cooking and distribution and events management for weddings, receptions and parties.

The main hall would have a seating capacity of 300.

It would also serve as a training centre for staff and food promotion seminars and for community meetings.

The eastern half of the building would be converted into the banqueting hall with a moveable partition to allow for extra space.

A mezzanine floor would be formed above toilets at the back for offices, a conference room and bridal studio.

Wedding events well take place there if permission is given
Wedding events well take place there if permission is given

The western half would house the commercial kitchen, events kitchen, packaging area and a lounge.

Pre-packed frozen food would be delivered twice a week and food prepared on site would be for events only and not available to the public.

If it gets the go-ahead, a wide range of jobs in catering, household and table and bar services, security and visitor and guest management would be created.

Proposed opening hours are Monday to Thursday, 8am to 1am, Friday to Sunday, 8am to 3am.

A total of 64 parking spaces, including disabled, taxi and coach spaces, are planned.

Ten separate spaces are being earmarked for wedding party guests.

The applicant is Solid Rock Holdings.

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