A family of refugees from Syria will be moving into a six-bedroom home in Eynsford after a local family could not be found to move in.

The property has been available since February 2016 but Sevenoaks District Council and the landlord, West Kent Housing Association, had not been able to find a suitable family.

After considering other options, such as splitting the property or selling it, the decision was made to resettle a refugee family.

Cllr Michelle Lowe, cabinet member for housing, said: “We have agreed to bring our first Syrian refugee family to the district and I firmly believe this is a good outcome for everyone.

“We offered support to councils across Kent since the start of the government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme, but with no housing of our own, and no properties coming forward from the private rented sector, we couldn’t make a commitment to house any refugees.

“We will be helping a refugee family escaping from a terrible situation. At the same time the district keeps a social rented home that otherwise could have been sold and would never be available through the housing register again.

“We have been overwhelmed with the generosity of local people contacting us to offer support.”

The decision was made at the cabinet meeting on Thursday, March 9 and the council will work with Kent County Council and the Home Office to find a suitable family.

The property was used for emergency accommodation while the council and landlord tried to find a family who needed a home of that size.

The six bedroom home, which has been adapted for people with disabilities, was available to residents of Sevenoaks and neighbouring authorities.

West Kent considered splitting the property into two or more smaller homes, but due to the way it is laid out, it was not cost effective.

They considered selling the property but there was no guarantee the money would have been reinvested in the Sevenoaks District.

Frank Czarnowski, West Kent chief executive said: “West Kent is pleased this home will support the council to help a family fleeing the war in Syria and we hope it will give them an opportunity to settle and thrive while they remain in the UK.”

Sevenoaks District Council are also supporting the government’s community sponsorship scheme which encourages local groups to have a greater role in supporting refugee families.

To find out more call 01732 227000 or e-mail refugeesupport@sevenoaks.gov.uk