Medway's council leader has accused Maidstone council of "laughing off" concerns over plans to build 2,000 homes on its border.

Cllr Alan Jarrett (Con) said the Lidsing Garden Village proposals – which form part of Maidstone's Local Plan review – will destroy the lives of residents living in the area, which covers parishes of Bredhurst and Boxley.

Medway councillors have argued roads and services in the Towns would be impacted if the plans go ahead.

In March, Maidstone agreed to send the documents for examination by the government.

They will appoint a planning inspector to carry out an examination in public, who will then report to the council on whether or not they recommend the plan be adopted.

In order to get the plan through, neighbouring authorities have to present a "statement of common ground" which is also sent to the planning inspector.

Yesterday, Medway cabinet members were due to sign the document prepared by council planning officers.

But instead they agreed to let Maidstone know the statement needed additional work before they submit the document as issues remain unresolved.

Cllr Jarrett said while the council has to be seen to be cooperating with their neighbours, he accused them of "dumping" the homes on Medway's doorstep.

He said: "What I believe Maidstone council have demonstrated with this proposal is absolute arrogance and a high-handed approach, almost a dismissal of our concerns and the concerns of the locals.

"It's not a laughing matter, it's destroying the lives of people living locally.