A councillor is urging residents to have their say on plans for a 2,500-home ‘garden village’, for fear people will be discouraged from participating.

Developer Appin Land wants to build the community called Foxchurch – which could include a primary school, pub, shops and a village hall – off the A2 and A249 around Demelza children’s hospice in Bobbing, near Sittingbourne.

People are invited to take part in online question and answer sessions tomorrow (Thursday) at 1pm and 7pm, and Friday at 1pm - the final consultation before a planning application goes before Swale council.

In a letter about the events, the developer said: “Last year, Appin Land consulted with local people on plans to create a new development near Bobbing.

“The team are now working to finalise the plans. Before submitting a planning application to Swale council, we want to hear your thoughts.”

The previous consultation events were held last June, during which it was revealed that construction could begin in 2024, with between 150 and 250 houses being built each year.

That would mean it could take about 15 years to build all 2,500 homes if full planning permission is granted by Swale council.

Cllr James Hunt (Con), for The Meads, is encouraging residents to attend this week’s sessions.

He said: “I have received notification of further consultation events for the Bobbing garden community after changes have been made since the last consultation. This shows that whilst not in the Local Plan developers still feel in with a chance of getting the proposals through.

“In my view, this is because they feel the proposed Local Plan won’t get approval and the council will be in a situation of having no control over where development will go. Why would developers be spending more than £100,000 just in application fees if they don’t think they have a chance?

“I’d encourage all residents to attend these events, listen to what is being said and ask questions.

“I understand people consider it not worth making comment or being involved as views aren’t listened to, but this is the time where residents’ views matter and if the proposals do come forward as an application we need to ensure the developers listen to local people and make changes to the scheme if required.”

To take part in the online sessions or to view the proposals, click here.

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