A large-scale development could soon change the face of Cranbrook.

Four fields to the south of the town are being sized up for a development of up to 190 homes.

The land at Brick Kiln Farm, in High Street, sits within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and next to the Cranbrook Conservation Area (CCA) and is just 200 metres from a local nature reserve.

The project is in its infancy, with Persimmon Homes South East requesting an opinion from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council on the extent of an environmental survey of the site.

While the application specifies the estate will comprise 190 homes, further documents suggest that a total of 180 will be built alongside green space and play areas.

The 13.2 hectare plot, bordered on one side by the Crane Brook and surrounded by listed buildings, has previously been earmarked in the council’s Site Allocation Development Plan as suitable for between 200 and 250 homes.

In a response to the application Hilary Hosford, speaking on behalf of the CCA, said it was vital the countryside was not harmed by the scheme.

She said: “There are important views across the Crane Valley to Cranbrook which this scheme will interrupt.

“It is absolutely essential it brings in the highest quality architecture, planning and landscaping to ensure this development enhances not detracts from the town.

“It is vital ancient tracts of woodland along the valley are retained as a resource for the town as a walkway and nature area and permeability across the site into the town for pedestrians and cyclists is achieved to diminish the negative impact of more cars in the town.”

The council has until mid-March to reply to Persimmon on the proposed extent of the survey. Full details can be viewed at bit.ly/brickkilnfarm