DEVELOPERS Persimmon have lodged new plans with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
(TWBC) for 120 new homes to be built on the site at Bassetts Farm in Horsmonden. The new plans also include the future development of a new medical centre and a community orchard at the site just off Goudhurst Road.
The UK housebuilding firm, based in York, initially applied back in January 2023 for up to 163 homes on the site to the east of Horsmonden. The original application attracted more than 150 letters from the public and resulted in the plans needing to be scaled back.
A spokesperson from Persimmon Homes South East told the Times: “We’re delighted to share our exciting proposals for new homes in Horsmonden, Tunbridge Wells. Attractive “Our latest submission is the culmination of over two years of extensive community engagement and careful hard work to produce this highly attractive, green and sustainable housing scheme. If approved, our plans will deliver 120 much-needed new homes for the area, including 48 homes for either shared ownership or affordable rent. This will make an important contribution to addressing some of the affordability challenges that people experience in this part of Kent.
“We will also be providing land for a new medical centre, allotments and new areas of public open space with stunning views of The Weald to the benefit of the whole community.”
The affordable housing statement published alongside the planning application confirms that the 48 affordable dwellings will comprise of 29 two-bedroom homes – including four bungalows, 17 three-bedroom homes and two four-bedroom homes.
Although land will be reserved on the site for a new medical centre – another firm will have to come forward to provide it. A spokesperson from TWBC confirmed to the Times that a date has not been set yet for when the council’s planning committee will decide on the planning application. For further information, visit the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Planning Applications portal and reference 24/00078/HYBRID.
