Richborough recently made headlines with plans to develop 470 new homes. These homes will be situated in the village of Meopham, close to one of Kent’s major commercial centers. The proposal would result in 350 homes being developed on agricultural fields to the east of Wrotham Road. It would add another 120 homes on an adjacent single-family parcel south of Longfield Road. The positive impacts of the new development will help meet the community’s housing and equity needs and continue making life more affordable for Arlingtonians.
The suggested location on Wrotham Road is ideally located next to a local parade of shops, providing even more convenience and improved accessibility to future residents. Their smaller site on Longfield Road provided a fantastic opportunity to create a new school car park and drop off area. This smart development would serve the local community and improve traffic flow to the district’s educational hubs.
With Richborough’s planning application due to be decided in the next three weeks, now really is the time for action. During the next few months the firm intends to prepare a full planning application to submit to the local authorities, fleshing out their vision for the mixed-use development.
Combined, the homes proposed would impact 52 acres. Half of these new units will be affordable housing. These homes will be sold or rented at rates affordable to those below the Area Median Income. Taken together, this approach will bring significant relief to families and individuals who face acute need for affordable housing.
The close distance between the two locations provides an opportunity for integrated development that can take advantages of shared infrastructure and community services. Consultants Wardell Armstrong noted that “significant effects are not likely as a result of either scheme in isolation, or both in combination,” indicating a positive outlook on the environmental impact of the project.
Richborough is excited to continue providing a strong, positive impact to the local community through this proposed development. Market and affordable homes mix seamlessly in Meopham to serve a range of housing needs. This holistic approach not only facilitates inclusive, sustainable economic growth throughout the entire region.
