Application No8 submitted

A farmer has had plans to build eight barns on his land rejected after fears it would ruin Kent’s countryside.

Having already rejected six applications, Maidstone Borough Council refused a further two for a farm in Lenham at a planning meeting on Thursday.

Ramblers and the parish council opposed the Gipps Oast farm plans due to concerns over traffic at one of Kent’s areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Michael Tamsett, who represents the farmer, told the council the 21 sq m barns were crucial for the farmer’s business.

Mr Tamsett said: “The refusal of six of the eight barns jeopardises the enterprise and refusal of these two barns will devastate the applicant’s farming business.

“This is totally contrary to the fundamental principles laid out in the National Planning Policy Framework.”

He added the farmer made eight separate bids for these building to save £15,140 in fees.

However founding member of the White Cliffs Ramblers, Graham Smith, said the barns would have a “seriously detrimental effect” on the surrounding area.

He said: “This is about a large industrial building being built in a sensitive, rural environment.”

Mr Smith also raised concerns the barns may be used for other commercial activities outside of Kent and could be sold later.