Hythe Town Council Objects to Holiday Lodge Development in Spanton Crescent

Hythe Town Council gathered for an important meeting on Monday night, where members voted to formally oppose a proposed development that seeks to construct four holiday lodges, complete with associated parking and infrastructure. The contentious site is located on a patch of open space and woodland adjacent to Spanton Crescent in the town’s North Ward.

Two members of public, Mr Ivan Hart and Mr Rob Reeves, addressed the meeting, both advocating clearly and passionately for the council to consider objecting to the plans. Mr Hart told councillors residents were given just 10 working days to comment. Mr Reeves invited councillors to consider the damage to the biodiversity that would likely occur should the proposals get the green light.

One of the primary concerns expressed by the Council and the public revolves around the lack of consultation with nearby residents before the proposal was submitted. The absence of community involvement has generated apprehension among Hythe residents, leading to a packed Town Hall during the meeting. Committee chair, Councillor Martin Whybrow (Green), drew parallels to the community’s strong reaction during discussions about the ill-fated Princes Parade seafront development.

Councillor Penny Graham (Green) emphasised the necessity of community support for such proposals to succeed, pointing out that, in this instance, support has been conspicuously absent. The sentiment was echoed by Committee member Councillor Andrew Walters (Green), an architect, who highlighted that the proposed development encroaches upon land outside the town’s settlement boundary, with parts of it designated as open space in the District’s development plan.

Acknowledging the public’s engagement, Green Councillor Pauline Curran thanked those who had written to her and attended the meeting to voice their concerns. Councillor Gillie Savage (Green) emphasised her role in listening to residents, stating that in this case, the community’s voice is clear and unequivocal.

Green Councillor Martin Whybrow commended the campaigners for effectively raising awareness about the proposal, noting the high quality of comments submitted to planners. Independent councillor for the Town’s West Ward, Stephen Bailey, provided a different perspective, suggesting that the woodland in question is of low quality and that the proposed investment might lead to improvements.

Councillor Whybrow highlighted the significant portion of the site covered by a Tree Preservation Order and its role as a vital corridor for people accessing Brockhill Country Park from the town. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on the public footpath running through the site, underscoring the multifaceted objections to the development.

In its role as the local planning authority, Folkestone & Hythe District Council must take account of Hythe Town Council’s objection when making a decision on this application in the coming weeks. The outcome of tonight’s meeting will likely shape the future of the proposed holiday lodge development, with Hythe Town Council standing firm in representing the concerns and sentiments of its residents.