Statement on East Malling Trust ‘Bradbourne’ proposals

Since the announcement of the East Malling Trust’s proposal to build 1300 new homes on land between Ditton and East Malling, I have spent time reviewing the proposals, local residents’ comments and conferring with colleagues on the plans.

Upon all of this, it is clear that the proposed developments are not appropriate. In what is already a very congested area, these developments would invoke significant pressures upon surrounding infrastructure that are already under enormous strain.

This is an area that has already seen a large increase in developments. This latest proposal will see almost 80 hectares of agricultural land to be taken up, removing precious green and open space once more from the community. Large amounts of ancient woodland in the area have already been lost to developments. This plan threatens to envelope and diminish this woodland further. Similarly to the campaign to protect Bunyards Farm in Allington, these precious green and open spaces must be protected for the community.

The proposed development will see even more congestion on to Hermitage Lane and the A20 Junction which is already built up with severe traffic everyday. There will also be a significant increase in traffic going through the narrow roads of East Malling Village and nearby country lanes, making it increasingly dangerous for residents and motorists.

Infrastructure such as roads, schools, and health services are already suffering from the vast increase of developments within the area. Although part of Tonbridge & Malling council, this will have profound effects for the Maidstone Borough also. Maidstone Hospital has had to endure significant pressure from developments, nearby secondary schools are struggling with the increase of pupils looking for places, and our roads all around the area simply cannot take any more cars.

These plans are not suitable for the existing concerned communities within Tonbridge and Malling, as well as the Maidstone Borough. The land put forward has already been rejected in the last Tonbridge and Malling Local Plan by government inspectors. It is no more appropriate now than it was then. 

Ditton Parish Council are running an open meeting on Monday the 15th April in the OAKEN HALL at the DITTON COMMUNITY CENTRE to discuss the proposals and plans moving forward on opposing the developments. I would like to encourage all local residents, leaders and communities concerned with the plans to attend the Parish meeting. Please visit the Ditton Parish Council Facebook Page for full details.

A united community will show the vast disapproval for the plans and work towards a decision that works for local residents. 

David Naghi - Lib Dem PPC for Maidstone & Malling.