Developers have increased the number of homes destined for the edge of a rural village for the second time.

A planning application has now been submitted for land off Broad Street, in Lyminge, between Folkestone and Canterbury, where 49 homes are proposed, up from 47.

Pentland Homes had already secured permission for 28 houses for the plot, which were to include what the developer described as "executive mansion homes".

But the plans were reworked to reduce the number of larger detached properties in favour of smaller family homes, in a bid to appeal more to local buyers.

In official documents submitted to Folkestone & Hythe District Council (FHDC), the developer explains they intend to “create a sustainable and legible living environment”.

The proposed scheme would comprise of 37 freesale home, 10 affordable homes, and two self-build homes.

As well as this, the site would provide additional car parking spaces for the adjacent doctors’ surgery.

The application states: “We will create a characterful development with a clear identity.

“Make proper use of land to deliver appropriate scale and density.

“As well as provide new homes that meet high architectural standards; and recognise and enhance existing natural features and promote biodiversity.”

Traffic measures will also be put in place along the site boundary adjoining Broad Street to slow traffic down to 30mph.

At a consultation earlier this year, held at Etchinghill Golf Club, locals raised questions about drainage in the village and the potential road closure which will be required to connect the new scheme to the sewerage system.

Villagers had been left angry by plans for a six-week closure of Canterbury Road to allow the necessary works to take place - but it was called off at the last minute.

But Pentland Homes managing director Paul Kitchingman said unless a deal can be struck with the nearby New Lyminge Surgery to run a sewer across its land then a road closure is inevitable.

Richard Stewart, a villager who attended the consultation, felt the new housing would “spoil this beautiful country site”.

He said: “I was very disappointed that they've downgraded the development.

"They're obviously getting more houses in and they say they're aiming at a different market, but it seems a great pity to me to spoil this beautiful country site."

In the proposal submitted to FHDC on May 4, bosses reassured residents existing trees and hedgerows within and around the perimeter of the site will be “retained and enhanced with native species”.

As well as this, careful consideration would be given to the arrangement of dwellings within the site, with a higher density towards the existing built edge of Lyminge and a looser more irregular pattern opening onto the golf course.

Pentland Homes believes the development will support local services, contribute to local character, and provide new natural space and habitats.

A decision is expected to be made by FHDC within the next three months.