Kent property developer Mark Quinn has defended his plans to expand a village by 104 homes, citing the housing crisis and existing support for the scheme as reasons it should go ahead.

It comes as Quinn Estate's application for Sandwich Road, Ash, nears a decision by Dover District Council on Thursday, January 26.

Ash residents have banded together to oppose the scheme, commandeering an army tank to pose for this picture.

They claim the accommodation, along with Berry's application for 30 homes behind White Post Farm and 200 other homes within the existing Land Allocations Document, could result in a 25% increase in village housing.

Campaigner Chris Burnside says it would be unsustainable.

He said: “The parish council in conjunction with Dover District Council sought and allocated land for development to comply with government national requirements.

“Two preferred sites were identified at the top of Chequer Lane and to the south of Sandwich Road, and were considered to be the best option to ensure that the future housing requirements for Ash could be met, but the character of the village would be maintained.

“This was done in consultation with the local community and full consideration was given to the effect that this would have upon the village. These sites would allow for more than 200 new houses, depending on plans and it was felt that the effects, although difficult, would be largely acceptable.”

Mr Burnside stated there were already more than 1,300 homes in Ash.

He said: “Building 200 more homes identified on our own two preferred sites, plus the Quinn and White Post Farm sites (134 homes) should they be approved, would result in at least a 25% increase. Assuming three to a home, the increase in population would be at least 1,000.

“Such an increase would be unsustainable.”

About 70 residents turned out at 9.30am on Sunday, January 8, to demonstrate.

Mark Quinn, of Quinn Estates, has defended his position.

He said: “In this housing crisis it is disappointing that people who enjoy a roof over their head oppose such a scheme.

“We’re offering more affordable housing than any other developer in the district.”

The developers have engaged with the community at a public exhibition in April, and pledged to give the Scouts a new home and improve sports facilities in the village.

He said: “The average age of people living in Ash is going down. You do need new families and young people coming into a village to maintain its viability and make it successful.”