Five new shepherds huts – proposed for land next to a busy A road – will provide a “discreet and tranquil place to stay” in the Kent countryside.

The scheme is destined for a plot off the A252 Canterbury Road in Challock, near Ashford, and has been put forward by the residents who own the land and live at the nearby house.

After becoming overgrown with scrub and vegetation, the applicants hope the proposal will give visitors, who are expected to be couples, the chance to enjoy and relax in a “beautiful part of the countryside”.

If approved by Ashford Borough Council (ABC), the project will see five shepherds huts placed along the length of the western boundary of the site that will each sleep up to two people.

Each hut will measure 4.9m in length, 2.9m wide and 3.3m in height. Internally each hut will have a bathroom/shower, kitchenette, and bedroom.

The accommodation will not be fixed to the ground, “off grid” and accessed via an existing driveway to the applicant's house.

The existing gates to the home will be moved to just beyond the access to the holiday let site.

A small track will lead to a parking area to the north of the site which will be made up of woodchip. The parking area will provide parking for up to six cars, with enough turning space for all vehicles.

Bookings will be made online in advance and a key code box will be provided for each shepherds hut, planning documents state.

Group bookings will not be allowed.

“The aim of this proposal is to provide a discreet and tranquil place for five singles persons or up to five different couples, to relax and enjoy this beautiful part of the countryside,” the application reads.

“The site itself is very well contained and views into the site are restricted from all sides.

“Shepherds huts are a common feature in the countryside and can be removed with ease, returning the site to nature.

“Holiday lets which are professionally operated generate year-round guests who eat in local restaurants, drink in the local pub, shop in the local shops (often a few times per week) and visit local tourist attractions.

“The regular upkeep and maintenance also generates business for local tradesmen and women.”

The document adds that the proposed development is not harmful to the character of the environment and therefore should be supported by the council to encourage rural tourism to take advantage of the borough's large area of countryside.

It says: “The proposed development, whilst in the countryside, does not result in harm to the landscape character in this part of the area of natural beauty, appears to comply with all relevant local policies, the national planning policy framework and provides social, economic and environmental benefits.

“On this basis, it is requested that this application be considered favourably.”

The consultation deadline is February 1 with a decision expected by April 8.

On land nearby, ABC recently refused permission for a house to be built underground.

Keith Wilson's ambitious bid for a five-bed eco-home was thrown out amid concerns over its impact on the environment.