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Paddock Wood Homes Spark Resident Outrage Over 'Madness'
2 Jul
Summary
- Over 500 new homes are planned for Badsell Farm near Paddock Wood.
- Residents cite concerns over pressure on school and healthcare services.
- Water supply issues are a major concern for the local community.
A proposed development of over 500 homes at Badsell Farm, near Paddock Wood, has been met with strong criticism from local residents. The scheme, which includes plans for 40% affordable housing subject to financial viability, is part of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council's adopted Local Plan.
Developers Dandara South East have submitted a two-phase application: detailed permission for 272 homes and outline permission for an additional 248. Residents argue that the development will severely strain local services, including school places and healthcare facilities like GP and dental practices, which are already at capacity.
Concerns also extend to water resources, with objectors pointing to Kent's status as a water-stressed region. The recent confirmation of a hosepipe ban by South East Water and past supply outages in West Kent fuel these worries. The council's planning committee is expected to make a decision by September 2, with the Local Plan earmarking over 2,400 homes for the Paddock Wood area.
