Community Concerns Over Proposed Housing Development
Residents in Ashford have raised significant concerns about a proposed redevelopment project that aims to replace a former nursery school with nine new residential flats. The plan, submitted by Cunningham Developments on behalf of Dufont Faes Limited, has sparked debate over issues such as parking shortages and the potential loss of privacy for nearby homes.
The site in question is located on Hardinge Road and was previously home to Goldilocks Nursery, a day centre that operated from 1995 until its closure in 2014. After being sold to Heath Farm School, the property served as a post-16 sixth form centre until it closed in 2023. Since then, the 281 sq m building has remained vacant, leading to discussions about its future use.
Cunningham Developments proposes to construct a four-storey block featuring four one-bedroom flats, four two-bedroom units, and a single three-bedroom flat. While the developers claim the project will help meet local housing demand, several residents have voiced their objections.
Patric Nutton, one of the five individuals who have lodged comments on the Ashford Borough Council’s (ABC) planning portal, strongly opposes the scheme. He argues that the development would “overshadow” adjacent homes, causing a loss of light and privacy. Nutton also points out that the proposed structure would be “completely out of character” with the surrounding area, which features low-level bungalows set back from the road.
Amy Thomas echoed similar concerns, highlighting that the area already faces challenges with parking availability. She warned that the addition of nine new flats could exacerbate congestion and pose safety risks for residents.
In response to these concerns, Cunningham Developments claims the project is designed to meet both current and future housing needs. The company states that each flat will include a private balcony and access to a communal rear garden. A total of six parking spaces are proposed, including an electric vehicle charging point, which the developers argue will help reduce traffic pressure on Hardinge Road.
However, KCC Highways has raised its own concerns, suggesting that nine parking spaces should be provided instead. This aligns with ABC’s Local Plan, which requires one space per unit in central locations. The discrepancy between the proposed and recommended number of parking spaces has become a key point of contention in the planning process.
Residents are now awaiting a decision on the application, which is expected to be made by August 15. Meanwhile, the community remains divided, with some supporting the development as a necessary step toward addressing housing shortages, while others fear it will negatively impact their quality of life.
For those interested in staying informed about planning applications that may affect their area, the Public Notice Portal provides access to relevant information. Cunningham Developments has been contacted for further comment but has not yet responded.
