Alston Properties has proposed a significant development plan for the Coblands Nursery site located on Trench Road in Tonbridge, aiming to transform the area into a residential community consisting of 350 homes and 564 parking spaces. This initiative comes in response to new planning policy changes that have reclassified the site from green belt to grey belt land.
Development Details
The development plan outlines a mixture of housing types, including:
- 175 affordable homes
- 175 market homes
- A range of one and two-bedroom apartments
- Two to five-bedroom houses
- An independent living block with more one and two-bedroom apartments
All residences will feature private gardens or dedicated outdoor spaces, while the independent living block will include communal open areas, including a green courtyard.
Site Characteristics
The 11.54-hectare site, located on the northwest outskirts of Tonbridge, currently consists of various growing areas and has not been active since December. The existing access point from Trench Road will remain, while a new access route from Waveney Road is also being considered.
Parking and Community Consultation
The development will adhere to Kent County Council’s parking standards. Among the proposed parking facilities, there will be 20 spaces designated for use during school pick-up and drop-off times for St Mary Clitherow Catholic Primary School, situated north of the site.
A public consultation event was held on November 3, drawing over 60 attendees, primarily local residents. Feedback indicated that approximately 50-60% of participants supported the development, appreciating its design and green infrastructure. However, concerns were raised regarding potential traffic impacts and congestion on surrounding roads.
Environmental Considerations
Additionally, worries were expressed about the impact of the development on local wildlife, including species such as owls, bats, and dormice. In response, the development plan includes measures to enhance biodiversity by:
- Safeguarding ancient woodland
- Creating new habitats
- Utilizing existing ponds as part of a sustainable drainage strategy
To complement this, the design will incorporate landscape elements such as ponds, wetlands, swales, ditches, mature trees, orchards, and hedgerows.
Economic Impact
PWA Planning, representing Alston Properties, noted the urgent need for housing in the area. They project that the planned 350 homes would create significant social, economic, and environmental benefits. Construction is expected to generate over 1,200 jobs and produce more than £9 million in annual tax revenue, including £700,000 in council tax.
This initiative aims to stimulate local economic activity while addressing the housing shortage in Tonbridge.
The application for the development, which includes comprehensive plans for access, landscaping, and drainage, was submitted on December 19. The decision is currently pending.
