‘Don’t build on fields and orchards,’ MP pleads
An application lodged by the Duchy of Cornwall for 2,500 homes on farmland in Faversham has been approved by Swale Borough Council.
The Kent development received hundreds of objections, including from several neighbouring parish and town councils as well as Faversham and Mid Kent MP Helen Whately.
In a letter to the chief executive of Swale Borough Council, Whately highlighted that there are more than 20,000 homes in the pipeline for the Faversham and Mid Kent constituency including the Duchy’s development.
The politician urged councillors to “take into account the cumulative impact of all these developments on our roads, water supply and public services – together with the impact on the historic and rural character of this area and the important contribution we make to feeding the country.”
She added that she is “pressing” the government to increase housebuilding in London and other cities to avoid “building on fields and orchards.”
The council has resolved to approve the Duchy of Cornwall’s hybrid planning application, including detailed proposals for the first phase of the scheme.
This includes 261 new homes, of which 35% would be for affordable tenures split evenly between social rent and shared ownership.
A primary school and nursery alongside health and community infrastructure will also be included in the project, with 50% of the site designated as green space.
The homes will incorporate renewable energy, electric vehicle charging and on-site water recycling.
Sam Kirkness, executive director for development at the Duchy of Cornwall said it will focus on “continuing to work collaboratively with the council, partners and local residents to deliver a landscape led, environmentally friendly and sustainable neighbourhood, that enhances biodiversity, supports local jobs and reflects the unique character of Faversham.”
In a 2024 interview with Housing Today, the project team defended the proposals against the national media, with many outlets claiming that development was facing a local revolt despite the planning application receiving fewer than 30 objections at the time.
Ben Murphy, estates director for the Duchy of Cornwall, said the reported controversy had been “misread” and that titles were using “clickbait” in their headlines.
The scheme’s masterplan was designed by Ben Pentreath. Construction of the first phase is due to start in 2027/28.
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