If the Heathlands development goes ahead it is crucial that the commitments made as part of the planning process are delivered by the developers
Too often promises are made by developers at planning stage and then broken a few years later. As I’ve said from the start, I am sceptical about the likelihood of another station in between Lenham and Charing. The worst thing we could see is a large development in the middle of the countryside with no alternative for its residents but cars for transport, meaning thousands more vehicles on local lanes and the A20.
Many of you have shared your concerns with me about Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) acting as both the planning authority and developer for Heathlands. At the consultation at the Dog and Bear in Lenham several people told me how unhappy you are about the Council appearing to ‘mark its own homework’ with no independent body to oversee the process. This situation seems to increase the risk that there will be a gap between the commitments made and what actually happens.
I pushed for a meeting with the Housing Minister to raise this with him. I pressed for answers on who is accountable for overseeing the development, and he confirmed this is the responsibility of the Council.
He sidestepped the real concern about the Council policing its own planning application. He said anyone who suspects the Council of any impropriety must complain. I believe this places an unfair burden on the shoulders of the Parish Council, SOHL and residents – but that is the situation.
I will continue to walk with you every step of the way and will write to Ministers, ask questions in Parliament and demand meetings in my quest to get your views heard.
