Plans for 2,000 homes on University of Kent land spark controversy over environmental impact and sustainability.
The city wants this building project in its plan, which is a blueprint for building until 2040. This land is between Tyler Hill, Blean, and Rough Common. They’re trying to find a builder for it now. It’s a 240-acre area of grass and woods.
A real estate company calls it a great building chance, but some people disagree strongly. They think it will hurt the area badly. A group called Save the Blean wants to help the university.
The university needs money, and the group seeks a solution that saves the countryside. The university needs to save about £20 million. The university announced job cuts in January. They have loan payments and fewer students.
The group doesn’t think this is a good place to build housing. They say the area is hilly and challenging. People might not bike or take buses, which could cause traffic problems.
Many things promised don’t add up, they claim. The university proposed the land for building. The city thinks it’s good for a small, sustainable community. It would include a school, and they would rebuild Blean Primary School, too.
The city wants a neighborhood where you can walk or bike anywhere in 15 minutes. The listing aims to see if builders are interested. They likely won’t sell it right away but want offers for the land.
The university says building will be sustainable. They will consider the local environment and balance nature and improvements. They can free up land for more housing.
The city’s plan needs approval. The final plan appears in fall 2025. Councillors will approve the plan. Then, they will have a public consultation for six weeks. Then, a planning group reviews it in spring 2026.