A Christmas and apple tree farm between Sittingbourne and Faversham could be used to help former servicemen and women, if it gets the go ahead.

The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment (PWRR) Benevolent Fund wants to transform nearly 19 acres of land, off Homestall Road, in Norton, into the Veteran’s Horticultural Rehabilitation, Social and Community Project.

The site is described as “in a poor state”, having had little use over the past decade, containing disused quarried areas and the remnants of an off-road vehicle track.

The proposals include a single-storey building with toilets, storage, a processing area, horticultural rehabilitation area and communal area.

Once up and running the project would be able to help rehabilitate former service personnel and re-integrate them back into society.

The application submitted to Swale council planners stated: “The scheme would also help develop relations between the local regiment and the immediate community, at the same time as supporting veterans.

“They plan on initially delivering an area of Christmas tree planting, as well as an area of apple tree planting.

“The proposal also retains significant wild meadow areas and would support beekeeping.

“Once completed, this would not only benefit the local rural economy but also provide a rehabilitative way for retired veterans from the PWRR.”

The veterans would be able to help with planting and harvesting the trees. The area contains some ancient woodland which would be protected by an area of scrub.

Newnham Parish Council said it supported the scheme but wanted re-assurances the land would be kept for agricultural use and it not developed for homes.

The final decision on the plans rests with Swale council.

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