Paul Francispolitical editor

A controversial shake-up of planning rules could help struggling first-time buyers in Kent, according to a support group aimed at breathing new life into rural areas.

Action With Communities In Rural Kent, an independent voluntary group, says a lack of affordable housing can damage villages and more small-scale developments built with community support, could address a chronic shortage.

The government is facing criticism over its plans because some say it will allow developers free rein to build in the countryside.

An estimated 12,000 extra affordable homes are needed across Kent and Medway - a number expected to increase as property values continue to rise.

Nigel Whitburn, community development manager for the rural group, said: "The fact is that the population is going up but the number of people living in their own house is going down. People have to live somewhere. Anything that will make it easier for young people, we are keen on. There is a problem with provision in rural areas."

Small housing developments of ten to twenty homes under the government’s community ‘right to build’ plans would help plug that shortage.

"Young people are forced to leave villages, particularly if they are married with young children and that reduces the social mix in a community."

The support for the government’s package of reforms comes as two government heavyweights moved to endorse the proposals in the face of mounting opposition.

Chancellor George Osborne and local government minister Eric Pickles have rallied behind the beleaguered planning minister and Kent MP Greg Clark, pictured right.

In a joint article, the pair insist Mr Clark’s plans will help boost house-building without giving developers an advantage or putting the countryside in peril.

"House building rates before we took office had fallen to their lowest for generations. The average first-time buyer is already well into their thirties. A lack of new homes is sombre news for every young family waiting to get a foot on the ladder. Reforming a slow and inefficient planning system will be good news for the small business looking to expand; for the young family hoping for more affordable house prices; and for the community wanting to decide on their own future."