Traffic fears over care village plans

An 80-bed care home is planned to be built off one of Canterbury’s busiest roads.

Creating 50 new jobs, the three-storey facility in Littlebourne Road will be accompanied by a mini village of seven bungalows offering assisted living for pensioners.

The proposals, which have the support of Kent County Council, have been submitted to Canterbury Canterbury Council’s planning team by developers Townscape Ltd.

If approved, the new care home - catering for the vulnerable and those living with dementia - would be built in the large garden of a detached house named Seotamot.

It would neighbour existing care home Highland Court House, and sit near to the proposed 200-home development at St Martin’s Hospital and a 500-home scheme at Howe Barracks.

As a result, the plans have sparked fears over increased traffic hazards and congestion on one of the city’s key routes.

Dr Mehri Holliday has raised concerns, saying: “Neither Littlebourne Road nor Stodmarsh Road are able to cope with the extensive traffic generated by staff, visitors, or ambulances. “As it is currently we are facing severe congestion, speeding problems, and noise pollution.

“The increased volume of accidents is indeed alarming already.” Questions have also been raised over the necessity of the project, due to its close proximity to three other care homes. However, developers predict only 14 extra vehicle movements in peak hours, and stress the scheme would result in only a “small level of traffic” which “would not have a material impact on the existing highway network”. They say the project will provide a “welcome boost for the area” by addressing a shortfall in Canterbury care services, and freeing up 80 homes for the increasing population.

They also argue the home will “blend in” with the local area, and boast the most energy efficient systems. “The proposals address an increasing need for residential accommodation for the elderly, both within an extra care unit and for those with higher levels of dependency,” they say.

“And for those who are more independent, a small group of attractive bungalows whose occupiers will be able to use the extensive care facilities next door. “Any adverse impacts of granting planning permission would not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits.”

If given the go-ahead, construction is due to last for 18 months. Designs have been drawn up by Canterbury-based architects Clague.

A sketch of the proposed care home