Learn about our plans for the third phase of residential development on land north of Broomshaw Road, in Barming
We are working closely with local residents, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council (TMBC) and other key stakeholders to deliver a new community in Barming, Maidstone.
The whole development site falls under the jurisdiction of TMBC and Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) and is split into three phases.
The first phase of development was completed in 2023. The second phase, which is known as Oakapple Place (Phase 2A), is already under construction following full approval from MBC in 2021.
We are now developing plans for the third phase of development which is located on land north of Broomshaw Road, Barming. This particular phase sits within the administrative boundary of TMBC and outline planning permission for up to 118 units was approved in 2022.
In line with the outline planning permission, our proposals for the third phase of development include 100 new energy efficient homes, ranging from two-bedroom to four-bedroom properties, as well as some affordable homes. Our plans also include circa 1 hectare of accessible open space, as well as a play area for the benefit of the local community.
If our proposals for phase three are approved, we expect that the new homes will be delivered from 2026 onwards.
Following a period of consultation, we submitted our reserved matters planning application to TMBC on 8th July 2024. The application can be viewed on the council’s planning portal and by searching the reference number 24/01084/PA.
Development Map
Masterplan
As per the approved outline planning permission, we are proposing to deliver circa 1 hectare of accessible open space, as well as a new play area for the benefit of the local community.
Street scenes
These attractive street scenes will complement those at the Oakapple Place development (Phase 2A).
Homes proposed
The proposed mix for the private homes on Phase 3 is:
• 14 x 2 bedroom homes
• 55 x 3 bedroom homes
• 21 x 4 bedroom homes
A number of the proposed new homes will be allocated as affordable housing, in accordance with the outline planning permission.
About our proposals
Connectivity
In line with the conditions of the outline planning permission, the primary access point into the development will be on Hermitage Lane via Oakapple Place, with secondary access via Broomshaw Road for all vehicle movements. Both access routes will provide full vehicle and pedestrian connection, as well as a useful link to Oakapple Place.
In addition to existing public rights of way [PROW’s], new cycle links on the bridleways that cross the site and cycle parking facilities will be provided. Future residents will also be able to access local bus services located in Oakapple Place, providing access to Maidstone and beyond.
When the time comes to travel further afield, residents will benefit from close proximity to a range of local transport links, such as the M20 and A26.
Connections within the development and reliable transport links will ensure that future residents have easy access to a wide range of amenities and facilities in the surrounding areas, such as:
Schools
- Barming Primary School
- Jubilee Primary School
- Bower Grove School
- Oakwood Park Grammar School
- St Augustine Academy
- Aylesford School
Transport
- Barming Railway Station
Medical
- Allington Clinic and GP
- Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust
Retail and leisure
- Tesco
- Sainsbury’s
- Mote Park
- Fremlin Walk Shopping Centre
Drainage
If our plans are approved, all surface water runoff will be drained via a piped network to deep borehole soakaways located across the development.
Ecology
As part of our consented outline application for Phase 3, we completed an Ecological Impact Assessment as well as an Arboricultural Impact Assessment of the site. Consequently, we are aware that local wildlife, including a number of hedgehogs, insects and birds, make use of the open spaces. Dormice have also been located in the hedgerows to the north of the site, and reptiles are present within grassland.
To ensure local wildlife is protected, a Biodiversity Management Plan was approved by TMBC during the outline planning stage. This will be updated to outline a series of mitigation measures which will be in place for the duration of the construction period, as well as methods for retaining established habitats and existing hedgerows, where possible.
Some of the on-site mitigation measures we have proposed for Phase 3 are detailed below:
- Enhance the green corridor which will connect Phase 3 with Oakapple Place (Phase 2)
- Retain existing hedgerows, trees and grassland around the northern, western and southern boundaries of the site, where possible
- Translocate reptiles to a suitable, off-site receptor area
- Provide suitable mitigation measures to protect dormice, in line with a Natural England licence (to be agreed prior to works on site)
- 10 x boxes for dormice
- 3 x log piles
- 3 x insect boxes
- 6 x bat boxes
- 4 x bird boxes
Heritage
Our approach features
Former uses of the site
Previous planning applications
Reserved matters planning consent for Phase 1 was approved in 2019, while full planning consent for the Oakapple Place development (Phase 2A) was granted by MBC in 2020.
Previous consultations and feedback
History of the site features
Economic benefits
Open space
Green corridors and landscape buffers will also enhance ecological and recreational benefits.
Amenities & facilities
We aim to support the communities in which we build. One way in which we do this is by providing new facilities that local people will benefit from.
Our proposals for Phase 3 include areas of open space, as well as a new area of play, which we hope local families will enjoy for years to come.
Community benefits features
July 2024 - Submission of reserved matters planning application to TMBC
Autumn / Winter 2024 - Decision expected from local authority