By Kamile Sirvinskyte

Five sites have been snapped up by a local authority as it aims to create 1,000 new and affordable homes.

Maidstone council has started work on multiple well-known sites across the town to build 94 houses.

It has bought the former Bathstore on Tonbridge Road, which collapsed into administration in 2019, Corben’s Yard, land at Granville Road, Britannia House and the Royal British Legion/Heather House site in Park Wood.

Demolition works took place earlier this year at Heather House in Bicknor Road to provide space for a new community centre.

The council’s director for regeneration and place, William Cornall, said: “We are really pleased to have commenced these sites; the 94 affordable homes will be for those people who need them the most.

“The council needs more affordable housing in Maidstone for local people. The private sales and private rental market is simply beyond the reach of many, so MBC needs to increase its own affordable housing stock.

“We understand the financial pressures that many people are experiencing at the moment so being able to provide affordable housing for local people is vital.”

Housebuilder The Chartway Group has been chosen to deliver the Royal British Legion and Heather House sites, while property developer Skillcrown will build the others.

William added: “Getting these sites underway demonstrates the excellent progress MBC is making.

“We really hope these new developments will make a massive difference to the lives of those in the local community as well as those who will live in the new homes.”

The council has secured funding from Homes England to provide the subsidy for the schemes.