Developers want to build more homes on a new housing estate - despite the project previously being applauded for not having a “sardine-tin mentality”.

Construction is well under way on the Hoplands Farm development in Hersden, near Canterbury, after permission for 250 homes was granted in 2017.

But now housebuilder Redrow wants to add an extra 59 on a “surplus” parcel of farmland which falls within the site.

Cllr Ashley Clark, the former vice chairman of the city’s council planning committee, had previously praised the development for not having the “sardine-tin mentality” of cramming in as many homes as possible.

“It’s development creep, so it’s not surprising it happens,” Cllr Clark said. “Developers see an opportunity to expand and they take it - they add bits on. It won’t be as simple as that though, as it will have to be acceptable and go through all of the processes.

“There is still 36 acres of village green land which will always be protected at that site.”

About 55% of the Hoplands Farm site - which is near to Stodmarsh Nature Reserve - will remain designated green space. It has village green status - giving it the highest form of protection from future development.

The nine acres in question for the additional 59 homes are on the western side of the site.

While Redrow is now in charge of the housing aspect of the Hoplands site, Quinn Estates - which secured the original planning permission - is managing the commercial and business element of the project.

The Kent-based firm has permission to open a Co-op, as well as a dentist and smaller convenience store. A children’s nursery and engineering apprenticeship centre were also approved last autumn. The apprenticeship centre is to be run by the East Kent College (EKC) Group, while the Hersden Under-5s Project will be moving base to take on the new nursery.

Tom Roberts, head of communications at Redrow, said: “These additional 59 homes include a range of house-types including over 30% affordable housing to help attract a diverse range of occupiers at different stages of life.

“Redrow is fully committed to ensuring that homeowners have access to nature and thoughtfully designed green spaces across all of our communities for the positive influence they have over our mental and physical wellbeing. We were careful to ensure that the additional homes being built do not impact any of the planned green open spaces and fall within the area of the site that has been earmarked for development and outlined to the council.”

Planning papers submitted with Redrow’s bid for more homes stress how the scheme will help the council meet its house-building targets.

“It is considered that the 59 dwellings can be supported by the existing facilities in Hersden as well as those proposed as part of the new neighbourhood centre,” they state.