New homes planned for garage site in Thorne Estate in Pluckley near Ashford

New homes planned for garage site in Thorne Estate in Pluckley near Ashford

News Hour

A row of old garages could be flattened to make way for three houses under new council plans.

Ashford Borough Council initially wanted to build six homes in Thorne Estate in Pluckley – but has now cut that number in half.

The development will consist of two three-bedroom homes and a two-bed
The development will consist of two three-bedroom homes and a two-bed

Authority bosses say their updated plan, which will feature two three-bedroom homes and a two-bed, is “more sustainable” than their initial idea.

Cllr Andrew Buchanan (Con), portfolio holder for housing, says the council is looking to provide more affordable homes in response to the needs of residents.

“We are looking to develop on all appropriate pieces of land in the council’s ownership already and we are also looking to buy pieces of land that will help us deliver more homes,” he said.

“We have reviewed all of our garage sites and considered each for their development potential.”

If the project is approved, work would begin within a year and should be complete in roughly eight months.

How the site currently looks
How the site currently looks

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ABC says the homes will “enjoy good views over farmland” and it is considered that vehicle access in Thorne Estate would be suitable to support the new homes.

The bungalows on the corner of the site will remain and the trees nearby will also be retained, bosses say.

In a statement detailing the project, ABC said: “We will aim on first let to allocate to households with a local connection to the village and thereafter in line with our lettings policy.

“The proposals have been designed by BPTW Architects which is highly experienced at providing desirable homes and places that fully consider the site context and surroundings.

Three affordable homes will be built if the project gets the green light
Three affordable homes will be built if the project gets the green light
How the project will be laid out
How the project will be laid out

“The buildings proposed take their cue from the surrounding street scene and with consideration given to neighbouring properties and other practical aspects such as parking and refuse.”

ABC carried out a consultation over the summer but a planning application is yet to be submitted.

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