Plans for nearly 700 homes in Sittingbourne, Kent, have been given the green light by housing secretary Robert Jenrick despite claims the homes will undermine the local council’s commitment to reaching net zero carbon emissions.

The scheme, destined to be built out by Barratt following an agreement with landowners Quinn Estates and Mulberry Estates, includes outline permission for 595 homes plus a primary school and shops, along with detailed permission for a further 80 homes.

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