ONE of the biggest developments ever proposed for Sittingbourne has received Swale Borough Council's backing.

The proposed East Hall Farm development at Murston, closely linked to the development of the Northern Distributor Road (NDR), was given overwhelming support by councillors at the council's planning committee meeting.

Developer Trenport had offered £4.4 million towards the NDR and community services that will accompany the East Hall Farm development.

The company wants to build 550 homes on the site as well as 42,000 square metres of offices or factories. Trenport wants to put £4 million of this towards the NDR.

The borough council is looking for £9.9 million, though, which will also fund a community hall, primary and secondary schools, an improved bus service and open space with play equipment.

Some councillors called for Trenport to spread its contribution over a wider range of facilities, but the application was still passed with 11 votes and two abstentions.

Cllr Andrew Bowles (Con) said: "We have made it quite clear that the NDR is our number one priority.

"I believe in terms of the future prosperity and comfort for the people of Sittingbourne this is the most exciting project that has come before us. We need to provide the NDR."

Cllr John Stanford (Lib) believed the remainder of the funding could come from Central Government.

He said: "We have a great opportunity with the Thames Gateway to lever in a great deal of money from the Government."

An objector spoke against the proposal at the meeting in Swale House in East Street, Sittingbourne..

Mrs Heather Thompson expressed concerns about provision of schools, a doctor and other services for the new homes. She was also concerned about the effect the NDR would have on bringing traffic into the town.

The council will now try to find the remaining £5.5 million to fund the entire project through the public purse and government funding.