100 homes and sports pitch at Land Off Old Ashford Road, Lenham, Maidstone

Who addressed the committee

The applicant's agent addressed the meeting remotely.

The committee's decision

The committee resolved to defer consideration of the application.

“RESOLVED: That consideration of this application be deferred to:”

Minutes

Ecological and sports evidence needed

Members wanted KCC Ecology to confirm at least 20% biodiversity net gain, and Sport England's advice on whether the proposed sports facilities could replace those at William Pitt Field.

“(1) Consult KCC Ecology for their confirmation that at least 20% on-site Biodiversity Net Gain for habitats, hedgerows and watercourses can be achieved.”

“(2) Consult Sport England for their advice on the proposed sports facilities and whether they are of sufficient quality to replace those currently located at the William Pitt Field.”

Minutes

Masterplan and watercourse information needed

Members wanted a fuller masterplan tested against design guidance and more information on sports pitch distances from watercourses and boundary landscaping.

“(3) Achieve a greater understanding of a Masterplan for the residential development and as part of this to require the applicant to demonstrate that consideration has been given to the design principles set out within Maidstone Building for Life 12 (Local Design Guidance) and the National Design Guide and, through figure ground analysis, that the density proposed is contextual with the local area.”

“(4) Require further information relating to the sports pitches in terms of distances from watercourses and landscaping on the outside boundaries which should be strengthened.”

Minutes