Homes go-ahead flouts the rules

Planning permission has recently been granted for a 28-bed private development of student housing on Havelock Street and Old Ruttington Lane in Canterbury, despite the fact that there is already a high proportion of students in the vicinity.

The percentage of student houses (HMOS) in Havelock Street is already in excess of 25%, and this development will push this to more than 34%.

The city council’s planning policies set a clear limit of 10% in residential areas to maintain the cohesion and fabric of the community.

Residents in Havelock Street were not notified of the application and many are understandably angered that they were denied the opportunity to raise comments and objections before this was granted permission.

Concerns have also been raised about the student houses overlooking the day nursery alongside, and the noise and dust nuisance during construction.

Residents cannot understand why