Outline planning permission has been granted for a controversial new housing development near Otham.

Housebuilder Bellway wants to construct up to 250 new homes at land north of Bicknor Wood, near Gore Court Road.

Outlined in Maidstone Borough Council's draft local plan, the creation of new estate has been steadily opposed by both Otham and Downswood parish councils, alongside dozens of letters of objection from nearby residents.

Detractors' concerns include the impact more homes would have on nearby infrastructure as and potential damage to the environment and ancient woodland.

Bellway will now come up with a detailed planning application likely to be called in by MBC's planning committee.

If a reserved matters application is approved, the developers claim it could generate investment worth £2.5m for the local area.

A section 106 agreement for the development would include contributions to the provision of Langley Park Primary School, the expansion of the Cornwallis Academy, local health facilities, highways improvements, social care and libraries.

Managing director for Bellway’s Kent division, Chris Moore, said: “We’re delighted to receive outline planning permission for the site at Bicknor Green.

“We are currently in the process of finalising our detailed plans, which crucially includes making sure the development provides the right number and mix of homes to help meet the demand of the area.