Welcome to the consultation website for emerging proposals for the land north of Birchfield Grove, Hawkhurst.
About
The proposals seek to bring forward the redevelopment of the land north of Birchfield Grove in Hawkhurst. The site is located to the northeast of Hawkhurst between the A268 (to the south) and White’s Lane (to the north).
The site currently consists of two pasture fields, bounded by hedgerows and trees. To the immediate west is a residential area, and to the south, there are several different uses present including a Tesco Metro, a primary school, and residential development. Within walking distance of the site are schools, supermarkets, restaurants, North Ridge GP surgery, a post office and bus services, making it a very sustainable location.
The emerging Local Plan for Tunbridge Wells identifies part of the site as suitable for a new Doctors Surgery. The Plan also identifies a need for additional housing in Hawkhurst and a potential requirement for the expansion of Hawkhurst Primary School.
The proposals for the site respond directly to this context to bring forward a set of proposals that will help Hawkhurst grow in a sustainable manner.
Proposals
The proposals being considered include the following elements:
- A site for the newly merged Wish Valley and North Ridge Doctors Surgeries.
- Approximately 70 new homes, with a mix of smaller and family-sized homes including affordable housing, and First Homes for first time buyers.
- Safeguarded land to be transferred to Kent County Council to allow for the possible future expansion of Hawkhurst Primary School.
- A new north to the south footpath to link residents in the northwest of Hawkhurst via a safe pedestrian route through the development to the Rye Road.
- The potential to include dedicated children’s play areas and a possible pavilion within the open space area.
- Public open space and the provision of new public rights of way.
These proposals have yet to be finalised and are subject to discussion with local organisations as well as the community in Hawkhurst.
Initially, an outline planning application will be designed to agree the principles of what has been outlined above. This will be submitted to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council for determination.
The application will include a Design Code which will set out the design intent for the proposed buildings and parameter plans which set out the intentions for the layout of the development. The final details of the proposed scheme will come forward separately through “Reserved Matters” planning applications.
At our upcoming engagement events, you will be able to find out more.
Engagement
Prior to submitting a planning application, the project team will develop plans and present them to the local community for feedback, and comments.
A process of pre-application consultation is being brought forward by specialists, ECF, who have organised events for residents to attend.
If you are unable to attend either of these sessions outlined opposite, please check back on this website as copies of the information boards displayed at the public exhibition, and of the webinar recording, will be placed on this website shortly after they have taken place.
You are also able to ask members of the project team questions, by using the contact details below.
Public Exhibition
Tuesday 19th July, 5pm – 8pm
Copt Hall, Copthall Avenue, Hawkhurst, TN16 4LP
Public Webinar
Wednesday 20th July, 7pm – 8.30pm.
You can register to attend by the webinar by clicking here.