Aylesham village expansion gets green light

An important step forward in the planned expansion of Aylesham Village has been agreed by Dover District Council. The Planning Committee voted unanimously on Thursday (11 July 2013) to approve a variation to the planning permission that will see an enlarged first phase of the development. This includes an overall increase in the number of units from 446 to 770 (Phase 1A and 1B), and an increase in the number of affordable homes from 38 to 53, or 27% of the total units in Phase 1A. It is expected that the first homes will be available for affordable rent in March 2015.

The variation also included a number of changes to infrastructure works. This included bringing forward the development of new allotments from Phase 2 to Phase 1B.

Commenting on the decision, Cllr Frederick Scales, Chairman of DDC's Planning Committee, said: "Expanding Aylesham has been a long-term strategic goal for the council. We are mindful that we are building a community here not just housing. The Committee was grateful for the positive way in which residents and local parish councils have worked with us and the developer to reach a positive outcome. We are also mindful of the views expressed at the meeting about the need to provide affordable housing for local people."

Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council said: "I am delighted that we can now progress this important development for the community of Aylesham and also for the wider district. We are committed to developing new housing in line with the Core Strategy and as integral part of the regeneration agenda. The demographics point to the district needing more housing, and a greater variety of housing, to respond to the needs of existing residents and to provide for future growth."