‘We need homes - but not this’

Protestors against a controversial garden town development have stepped up their campaign for the new year.

Campaigners say they are hoping to create further awareness of the potential impact of the Otterpool Park project through fundraising.

Bob Edden, co-chairman of Sellindge and District Residents’ Association, hopes that alongside other campaign organisations they can question the scope of the project.

It comes after Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) revealed in November that the bid - which, if approved, would see the development span to Ashford’s border within 30 years – was put back and will now be lodged ‘early 2019’.

FHDC in partnership with Cozumel Estates hopes to start building the first 8,500 homes and infrastructure in 2020 on greenfield land around Folkestone Racecourse, with scope for 1,500 more at a later date if plans are approved.

But Mr Edden said more discussion and public information was needed before the formal application is submitted. He said: “It seems to be happening in secret. There’s no information coming out. No where is there any explanation on what impact this has on the whole of the district.”

The association has organised a jumble sale later this month, with the money collected being used to raise awareness within affected villages: “We are not funded in any way. We are a collection of individuals but when we need to organise public meetings, we need to spend money on publicity.”

He added: “We are not against development. We supported a development in the middle of Sellindge and we are pleased with that. There is some scope for development on the Otterpool area but not this.

“So much of it doesn’t make sense. If Otterpool were the answer to everything, why are houses being built on Princes Parade?”

The jumble sale will be held at Sellindge Village Hall on Saturday, January 29 from 11am. Helpers, items to sell and raffle prizes are needed.