A new campaign has been launched to safeguard the historic Aveling and Porter building in Strood, Kent, which is set to make way for a new riverside development.

Medway Council is seeking to demolish the Edwardian building in order to allow for the construction of a new retail and residential scheme on the site, which is located on the banks of the River Medway. However, campaign group SAVE Britain's Heritage has commissioned Huw Thomas Architects to draw up plans for an alternative scheme, which would preserve the building and place it at the heart of the area's regeneration.

A new quayside would be created to run 200 yards along the river and creek, fronted by a riverside promenade with grass and seats, as well as a range of shops, cafés and apartments. SAVE secretary William Palin said: "The council's argument for the destruction of the Aveling and Porter Building is based on highly questionable figures. It is a tragedy that short-term economics are being used to deprive Strood of one of its key heritage assets.

"This is a building of which local people are extremely proud. It provides an anchor to Strood's great industrial past and if retained could form the prestigious centrepiece of a new residential development."