Natural burial ground at Gravelly Bottom Road, Kingswood

“Planning Committee Report 15 January 2026 Broomfield Road. The site is to the east of The Homestead and north of the residential property Kingsdene. The site currently used for the growing of Christmas trees. The surrounding area is characterised by areas of woodland, enclosed fields, commercial development and residential development along Gravelly Bottom Road and also Broomfield Road to the northeast.”

“Planning Committee Report 15 January 2026 for a low key and low impact natural burial without the traditional funeral procedures”. A total of 15 car parking spaces will be provided together with a turning area for a hearse. Approximately 700m 2 of permeable surfacing would be laid on site to establish the parking area, the site benefits from an existing access.”

“Planning Committee Report 15 January 2026 REPORT SUMMARY Relevant planning history • MAIN REPORT 1.0 DESCRIPTION OF SITE 1.01 The site is in the countryside on the north side of Gravelly Bottom Road, Kingswood, approximately 600 metres to the west of the junction of Gravelly Bottom Road and No relevant histo r y…”

“The use is found to be acceptable in relation to the minimal level of harm to the character and appearance of this rural area. The proposal is acceptable in relation to its impact upon neighbour amenity, and the access and parking arrangements are all acceptable.”

“Planning Committee Report 15 January 2026 5.0 CONSULTATION RESPONSES (Please note summaries of consultation responses are set out below and comments are discussed in more detail in appraisal section where necessary) Kent Highways: Development proposal does not meet the criteria to warrant involvement from the Highway Authority in accordance with the current consultation protocol arrangements.”

“In this context as the application is not in accordance with the adopted Local Plan, it needs to be determined as to whether there are other material considerations that justify granting planning permission.”

“That permission be granted subject to the conditions set out in the report.”

“That the Head of Planning and Economic Development be given delegated powers to be able to settle or amend any necessary planning conditions and/or informatives in line with the matters set out in the recommendation and as resolved by the Planning Committee.”

“The proposal is acceptable in relation to its impact upon neighbour amenity, and the access and parking arrangements are all acceptable. It is concluded that whilst the application is not in accordance with the development plan (a departure) these material considerations that have been outlined and the minimal level of harm indicate that planning permission should be approved.”

“5)Any external lighting installed on the site (whether permanent or temporary) shall be in accordance with details that have previously been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.”