Villagers campaign against Persimmon’s revised housing plan, citing concerns about sustainability and traffic.
They already sent over 230 letters protesting. Persimmon reduced the plan from 165 homes. They took out land already approved for 20 homes. Persimmon still plans to build those 20 homes too, bringing the total to 140 new homes.
Persimmon offered a fruit orchard and said there would be space for a clinic. However, Persimmon didn’t promise to actually build that clinic. One local called this a sneaky trick. The building site is near Goudhurst Road and is quite large – about 30 football fields.
Persimmon claims 40% of homes would be “affordable,” even though the land is close to a protected natural area. Persimmon also plans some allotments there and to expand the primary school. They say much of the land will stay green space. People are angry about the plan.
One person said the plan wastes money, while another called it reckless and huge. People praised the Bassetts Farm Forum’s work. The forum wrote detailed reports on the plan.
Persimmon says Tunbridge Wells needs more housing and that the law allows building now. The forum argues the plan isn’t “sustainable.” Other groups object, like a nearby parish council, and worry about traffic.
Even the old MP, Greg Clark, weighed in, saying to respect the village’s planning rules. Clark wants the medical center built alongside other housing and a legal agreement for that. He thinks there should be fewer homes and suggests smaller, cheaper houses.
Clark also spoke about the busy Goudhurst Road and wants Persimmon to help fix its problems. The village council also objects to the plan because it ignores the village plan. The village created that plan with much community input. You can find details on the council website under application number 24/00078.