More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
An award-winning B&B could be turned into a hostel for young people under new plans submitted by a charity.
The Amber Foundation wants to transform the Downsview Guesthouse in Willesborough Road, Kennington, into temporary housing for up to 26 residents.
The group, which is investing about £2m into the project, helps homeless and unemployed young people aged 16 to 30 get back on their feet, providing 24/7 support.
In its 26 years of operation, the Amber Foundation has set up similar housing in Surrey, Wiltshire and Devon, with the new application aiming to extend its service's reach into Kent.
Services provided by the foundation at its centres include education, training and employment support.
People from across the county would be able to stay at the Downsview site, following referral by charities, hostels, local housing authorities and probation services.
Paul Rosam, chief executive of Amber Foundation, said: “An Ashford centre offers us the opportunity to help some of the county’s estimated 2,500 young homeless get their lives back on track.
"During the pandemic, it is our young people who have been disproportionately hit the hardest.
"We know that emotional and mental wellbeing issues are rising and there is a growing local need for our services and support.
"All the young people that come to us have a formal assessment to make sure that they are suitable for our service and are motivated to move forward with their lives."
Originally the manor house to Holmlea Farm, the guest house sits on a one-acre site with 13 ensuite guest bedrooms and a two-bedroom apartment/holiday let.
If approved, the young people using the site will stay in shared rooms with communal cooking and dining facilities.
Funds for the centre, which will employ 13 staff, are being provided by the Henry Oldfield Trust, a grant-giving charity, chaired by Deputy Lieutenant of Kent and former High Sheriff Richard Oldfield.
Commenting on the proposals, Mr Oldfield said: “Amber has an impressive history of helping young people back into safe, sustainable accommodation and into work or training.
"As a trustee of Amber I’ve seen first hand its great work. The Henry Oldfield Trust is delighted to be helping with a new Amber centre in Kent.”
Earlier this year, the guest house – which employs three staff and triumphed on Channel 4's 'Three in a Bed' programme in 2011 – was put on the market for £1.5m.
The site is set to become surrounded by homes as the 725-home Conningbrook Park, or 'Large Burton', scheme is earmarked for land at the rear of the property.
The Amber Foundation submitted its plan to Ashford Borough Council last week and says the loss of the guest house "would not have any adverse impacts on the Kennington area".
It notes how the Conningbrook Hotel, which is just a stone's throw from the Downsview site, currently provides 29 ensuite bedrooms.
