Kentish Express Ashford & District
Developers’ £125m for infrastucture
Housing developers have agreed to hand over millions to Ashford Borough Council (ABC) in return for building one of the county’s largest estates.
A consortium of five companies will build 5,750 homes at Chilmington Green to the south west of Ashford.
Developers say it will create up to 1,000 jobs over the next two decades, as the scheme will boast new schools, a high street and a market square.
The companies have signed an agreement with ABC to put in £125 million to pay for new schools, infrastructure and amenities.
ABC leader Gerry Clarkson said: “This is just one of a number of exciting developments coming forward which are changing the face and fortunes of this wonderful borough.
“From the outset of the project the ambition has been to create a place of special character with a strong community feel.
“Chilmington Green is one of our Big 8 projects and its delivery is key to meeting the borough’s growth needs.
“It will be a carefully planned development with open spaces and quality public realm, a place where families and people of all ages will want to live, enjoy, and call home.”
The site will also boast a countryside park and will be built on Garden City principles, with tree lined streets, wide open spaces and spacious layout.
Hodson Developments managing director Alan Hodson said: “This is a significant milestone in the project to develop a 21st century development based on Garden City principles. We now look forward to delivering the much needed housing at Chilmington Green.”