Plans to transform a derelict plot of land by creating a new council-owed housing estate have taken a step forward.
The 28 affordable homes are planned for a site notorious with anti-social behaviour, including flytipping, in Ashford.
The three-acre plot, between Eastmead Avenue and Torrington Road, was earmarked for housing by Ashford Borough Council (ABC) in 2022.
Originally, a scheme of 35 affordable homes as well as commercial units for start-up businesses, was proposed but following several public consultations, the plans have been amended and now feature 28 affordable homes.
An application has now been submitted for the development by DHA Planning, on behalf of ABC, for seven one-bed flats and nine two-bed flats.
A further 12 houses – which would have a mix of three and four bedrooms – and 67 parking spaces are also planned.
Council chiefs also want to reopen the existing public footpath and formalise the existing pedestrian access via Torrington Road, as well as creating a community hub and parkland area alongside the River Stour.
ABC says the proposal has been put forward to tackle the lack of affordable housing in the borough.
Affordable housing schemes aim to make cheaper homes available for people who cannot afford to buy or rent at market rates.
Planning documents state: “The growth of Ashford has proportionally increased the demand for affordable rented housing, with demand outpacing supply.
“Affordability issues in the private rented sector, and growing numbers of homeless households in temporary housing, are also having an impact on the demand.
“On March 1, 2025, there were 1856 applicants on the housing register, which is the council’s affordable housing waiting list.
“ABC is keen to do more and has the ambition and capacity to deliver good quality additional homes, using land it already owns more efficiently or through the purchase of suitable sites, in areas with established infrastructure and good accessibility and connections.”
Primary access to the site will be taken via a new junction from Eastmead Avenue.
To achieve this, the vacant Eastmead House (Alpha Blinds) building will be demolished.
Meanwhile, initial plans for commercial units have been axed as it is believed the land can be better used as open space for the community.
An update on the application is expected by October 3.
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A spokesman for ABC added: “The homes will be council-built, council-owned and council-managed.
“This approach ensures the homes remain in public ownership and are let at affordable rents to help reduce the housing waiting list in the borough.
“These homes will not be sold off but will be retained as part of the council’s long-term commitment to providing genuinely affordable housing for local residents.
“Importantly, this development is in an area where there is currently very limited council housing, so it represents a significant step toward addressing local housing need and improving access to secure, affordable homes in Eastmead Avenue and the surrounding community.”
