Potential future of former county court revealed

The new owners of a former county court have revealed proposals to revitalise and “breathe new life” into the building. Planning permission has been submitted to change the use of the historic property in King Street, Gravesend town centre. The applicant, Annie Guo, is hoping to transform the old court into a community hub, with a nursery, a performing arts theatre, a café, space for an after-school club, and a remote working facility.

If approved, the different areas would be leased to a third party, with the London School of Performing Arts International Limited already being identified as one operator. The application document says the use change would be an “invaluable resource” for the area, especially for working parents and would be a “pivotal community hub”. It adds: “By converting the court into a nursery, community space, and a remote working area, we can meet the evolving needs of the community while preserving the building's historical significance.



“It would foster community engagement, support local businesses, and offer much-needed services such as childcare and a remote working space. “The project, therefore, presents a valuable opportunity to enrich the town centre and enhance the lives of Gravesend's residents.” Ms Guo also claims that towns across the country are finding it challenging to revitalise their unused public buildings like this and her plans would help “breathe new life” into the former court.

A decision on the plans is expected by Tuesday, June 17. To see more planning applications and other public notices for your area, click here . In 2023, the abandoned court building, which was constructed more than 150 years ago, was put on the market .

It was listed for £500,000 after it is understood to have been sold at auction. The property was built in 1870 by architect Thomas Sorby, who was known for his work on various civic buildings across the country, including town halls, courts and churches. The court opened in June 1871, where it heard civil cases until it closed in 2008 following a campaign to save it.

After a partial restoration by its former owners, the Grade-II listed building was used by the community organisation The Grand from 2012. However, since September 2022, the 7,675 sq ft site has been left empty..