Nuns’ quiet life of prayer facing ‘devastation’ from housing development near abbey

NUNS at a historic abbey could see their way of life ruined, a clergyman has claimed after developers outlined proposals to build a housing estate opposite the site.

Malling Abbey in West Malling, Kent, has provided a sanctuary for a community of Anglican Benedictine nuns for more than a 100 years. Around 15 sisters are understood to be among the current order, whose ages are estimated to range from 35 to 95. They have adopted a lifestyle based on silent worship and on occasion provide individuals with residential retreats.

The nuns could soon see their peaceful surroundings threatened after Bellway, a developer, proposed building 65 homes on land opposite the abbey.

Rev David Green, vicar of St Mary’s Church in West Malling, said: “For the nuns, it’s a particular concern because their entire way of life is built around silence and quiet, and they are being asked to effectively tolerate an enormous building site and a significant number of homes that will increase traffic and cause noise.

“We all recognise there needs to be homes in the South East but they need to be in sensible places. This is definitely not a sensible place.” Bellway originally sought outline planning permission from Tonbridge and Malling borough council for a development of up to 80 residential properties but was refused. Revised plans of 65 homes are due to be determined at a public inquiry starting next month.

Trudy Dean, chairman of West Malling parish council, said: “The whole community has come together to support the nuns against this highly intrusive plan. The effect on the abbey is devastating. If the sisters cannot carry on their work, we risk them quitting the site and losing what in many ways is the beating heart of our community, and has been for over 1,000 years.”

The council has started a crowdfunding websitee to raise £10,000 for legal support at the inquiry to help protect the site “from the bulldozers”. Bellway said there was “a proven need for more new homes across Tonbridge and Malling”, and that the development would “make an important contribution to the availability of private and affordable homes”.

Rochester Diocese, which owns the abbey, said: “We do have concerns and so are watching the work of the inquiry closely, and working with our agents on the matter.”