New images show how a “parkland council estate” planned for an overgrown patch of land could look.
Ashford Borough Council (ABC) announced in 2022 how a site between Eastmead Avenue and Torrington Road – often hit by fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour – would be turned into homes.
Originally, the plan for the ‘Coneybeare’ plot was for 35 affordable homes as well as commercial units for start-up businesses.
But, following the first phase of public consultation, the plans have been amended and now feature 28 affordable homes, including a mix of flats, houses and townhouses.
Council bosses say feedback from residents means the proposed flats are now lower in height to match the surrounding homes.
It has also decided the commercial units will be axed as it is thought the land can be better used as open space for the community.
And following feedback, the council has decided to create a new road layout made possible by its purchase of Eastmead House.
Bosses hope to reopen the existing public footpath and formalise the existing pedestrian access via Torrington Road in the west, as well as creating a parkland area.
Cllr Bill Barrett (Independent), cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said: “There are about 1,500 people on our waiting list for affordable housing.
“Like every other authority in the UK, we must do our bit to try and alleviate the housing issues that we face and we are committed to delivering as much affordable housing as possible.
“These are bold plans that will transform this derelict land and I would urge local residents to have their say once again and help us to shape the final proposals that will make up the planning application.”
Affordable housing schemes aim to make cheaper homes available for people who cannot afford to buy or rent at market rates.
In total, there will be three consultations. The current consultation represents stage two and stage three will be the formal consultation as part of the planning application process.
Anyone who would like to leave some feedback on the plans can go to the public consultation event on Thursday, May 9 at Christ Church Community Hall, Christchurch Road, Ashford TN23 7XB, between 3pm and 6.30pm.
This same consultation is also run online for a period of four weeks, from today until Friday, May 24.
Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.
Feedback can be provided here or by completing a paper version of a questionnaire available at the public face-to-face consultation.
An information leaflet is being delivered to surrounding homes.
It is expected a planning application for the site will be submitted in the summer.
