A scheme that could save a Hoo social club from closure may have to be revised after concern about the loss of playing fields for housing.

The proposal for six acres of land off Bell Lane was due to be discussed at a council planning meeting on Wednesday but was withdrawn at the last minute.

The decision came too late for many supporters and objectors who turned up to hear councillors debate the 97-home scheme on Wednesday .

Extra seats had been provided at Medway Council’s Gun Wharf HQ.

But planning officers met them at the entrance to the council offices to tell them the debate about the BAE sports and social club development would not be going ahead.

No explanations were given but Andy Frost, manager at the centre, explained to the Medway Messenger that he had received a letter from BAE Systems saying Sport England were unhappy with the loss of sporting fields.

Kick

The proposed development site is partly used for a football pitch and bowls green.

In the letter, the firm said they hoped to supply 'additional supporting information’ to Sport England which could help see the application accepted by the council.

Mr Frost said if the application was not accepted the club would probably have to close as it would miss out on a possible £3.4 million windfall.

He added: “It was a bit of a kick in the teeth for a few people here, but it is better we get this right than it be rejected and then for us to have to go down the route of appeal.

“I would like to thank everyone for their efforts, we still urge people to send in their support (for the plans to their local councillor) and I would certainly apologise to anyone who turned up to the meeting.”

Mr Frost said BAE were likely to come back to the council with a renewed application in April or May.