Kentish Express Ashford & District
Security fears over consultation
Plans to hold an exhibition on a controversial 5,000-home project, 10 miles away from its location for safety reasons, have been described as “farcical”.
It comes after councillors opened up about experiences of being verbally abused, spat at and having things thrown at them at similar consultations.
Proposals to build a garden village at Lenham Heath, led by Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) in partnership with Homes England, have proved controversial after being included in the authority’s Local Plan Review. But plans to hold two March consultation events at the Great Danes Hotel in Hollingbourne, seven miles away, for security reasons, drew criticism from opposition councillors.
Cllr Clive English (Lib Dem) said: “A public consultation taking place 10 miles away from the community it will affect is a farce.”
But while recognising concerns about residents being able to engage with the events, Cllr Simon Webb (Con), said he
wanted to put safety first.
He said: “After the Local Plan consultation at Maidstone Leisure Centre two councillors were verbally abused and were very upset by members of the public. I do think very strongly that Lenham Parish Hall should be used, but only if a risk assessment is carried out properly.
“I would like to see security at the event. We’ve got to ensure the safety of everyone who attends the meetings.”
This view was echoed by Cllr Annabelle Blackmore (Con) who said: “We do need to listen to residents,
it’s a really tough one.
“We’ve been here with consultations and it’s never easy. Having been heckled at, spat at, things thrown at me and being sworn at, it really isn’t very pleasant.”
An MBC spokesman said: “The council and Homes England, having listened to feedback, will add a third date, at a different venue, more local to Lenham too, also to be held in March.
“The event organisers have taken appropriate steps to ensure security for all as is normal practice at such events.”