Kemsing Housing Needs Survey October 2018

Tessa O’Sullivan Action with Communities in Rural Kent

www.ruralkent.org.uk

Contents Page

1. Executive Summary 3

2. Introduction 4

3. Background Information 4

4. Method 5

5. Results 6

6. Local Housing Costs 18

7. Assessment of Housing Need 22 7.1 Assessment of the need for affordable housing 22 7.2 Assessment of the housing needs of older households 35

8. Summary of Findings 41 8.1 Summary of the need for affordable housing 41 8.2 Summary of the housing needs of older households 42

9. Appendix K1 – Question 8/9/10 comments 43

10. Appendix K2 – Question 12 comments 54

11. Appendix K3 – Question 26 comments 59

12. Appendix K4 – Question 35 responses 61

13. Appendix K5 - Letter to residents and housing need survey 62

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Rural Housing Enabler (RHE) undertook a parish wide survey to ascertain if there are shortfalls in affordable housing provision within the parish of Kemsing. The survey also sought to identify the needs of older households of any tenure wishing to downsize/move to more suitable housing for their needs. This report provides overall information as well as analysis of housing need.

A survey was posted to every household within Kemsing in September 2018. 1750 surveys were distributed with 342 surveys being returned, representing a 20% response rate.

Analysis of the returned survey forms identified that 87% of respondents are owner occupiers. 71% of respondents have lived in the parish for over 10 years.

High property prices and a predominance of privately owned homes means that some local people are unable to afford a home within the parish. At the time of writing the report the cheapest property for sale in the parish was a 3 bed semi-detached house for £270,000; to afford to buy this home a deposit of approximately £40,500 would be required and an income of £68,000. To afford to rent privately an income of approximately £31,800 would be required to afford the cheapest property found available to rent in the parish which was a 1 bed flat for £795 pcm.

Overall, a need for up to 15 affordable homes, for the following local households was identified: • 7 single people • 3 couples • 5 families • 14 households currently live in Kemsing and 1 lives outside but wants to return

The survey also identified a requirement for 12 homes for older households: • 4 single people • 8 couples • The 12 households all currently live in Kemsing

The survey has identified a total need for 15 affordable homes. In addition there is a requirement for 12 open market properties suitable for older households who want to downsize/move to more suitable housing for their needs.

2. INTRODUCTION TO THE KEMSING HOUSING NEEDS SURVEY

The Rural Housing Enabler was commissioned by St Clere Estate and Sevenoaks District Council to undertake a housing needs survey within the village.

The aim of this survey is to identify in general terms if there is a housing need from local people. It is not to provide a list of names and addresses of individuals requiring a home.

3. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

In a report published in June 2018 by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) it is stated that: ‘The affordability gaps in rural areas are high compared to urban areas. The average rural house price is around £19,000 above the average for England as a whole, at £320,700 compared to £301,900, and is more than £87,000 higher than the urban average excluding London (£233,600) 1

Small developments of local needs housing schemes can provide affordable housing for local people, thereby enabling them to stay in their community and contribute to village life. This can make a real difference to the vitality of village services.

In 2007 Matthew Taylor, then MP for Truro and St Austell, was asked by the then Prime Minister to conduct a review on how land use and planning can better support rural business and deliver affordable housing. Many rural communities are faced by a combination of higher than average house prices and lower than average local wages. This can create challenges for individual families, the local economy and the wider sustainability of the community.

On July 23 rd 2008 Matthew Taylor presented his Review to the Government. The then Government issued their response to the review in March 2009 where they accepted the majority of Matthew Taylor’s recommendations (Department of Communities and Local Government 2009).

The Government believe that the Community Right To Build will shift power from them to allow local people to deliver homes that are needed in their communities so that villages are vibrant places to live and younger people are not forced to move away because of a shortage of affordable homes. 2 The Community Right to Build forms part of the neighbourhood planning provisions contained in the Localism Act 2011.

The Rural Housing Enabler Programme, which is delivered in Kent through Action with Communities in Rural Kent – the Rural Community Council for Kent and Medway, is supported by Local Authorities across Kent and Medway including Sevenoaks District Council.

Action with Communities in Rural Kent is a registered charity (No. 212796) whose purpose is to improve the quality of life of local communities, particularly for disadvantaged people, and to facilitate the development of thriving, diverse and sustainable communities throughout rural Kent. Since March 1998 Action with Communities in Rural Kent has employed a Rural Housing Enabler whose role is to provide independent support, advice and information to Parish Councils and community groups concerned with the lack of local needs housing in their rural communities.

The RHE will assist with carrying out a housing needs survey, analyse the results and when appropriate help identify suitable sites in conjunction with the local authority and others, for a local needs housing scheme. Once a partnership has been established between the Parish Council, the chosen housing association and the local authority to develop a scheme, the independent role of the RHE helps to ensure the project proceeds smoothly and to the benefit of the community.

1 A New Rural Settlement: Fixing the affordable housing crisis in rural England https://www.ippr.org/files/2018- 06/1530194000_a-new-rural-settlement-june18.pdf 2 http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/neighbourhoodplansimpact 4

4. METHOD

The Rural Housing Enabler from Action with Communities in Rural Kent agreed the format of the survey and covering letter with St Clere Estate and Sevenoaks District Council; a copy of the survey was posted to every household in the parish in September 2018.

Surveys were returned in pre paid envelopes to Action with Communities in Rural Kent. Copies of the survey were available to complete for anyone who had left the parish and wished to return, these were held by the Rural Housing Enabler. It was asked that completed survey forms were returned by 3rd October 2018. All surveys received at Action with Communities in Rural Kent by that date are included in this report.

1750 surveys were distributed with 342 returned by this date representing a return rate of 20%.

Some surveys were not fully completed therefore the results are shown for the total answers to each question.

5. RESULTS

Section 1

Listed below are the results of each question asked by the housing needs survey.

Question 1. What type of housing do you live in?

298 Owner occupier (with or without mortgage) 2 Tied tenancy 10 Renting from Housing Association 12 Private rented 3 Living with relatives 8 Shared ownership 1 Other - please specify

Other - please specify Shared ownership Living with relatives Private rented Renting from Housing Association Tied tenancy Owner occupier (with or without mortgage) 0 100 200 Frequency

87% of respondents are owner occupiers

Question 2.

Number of bedrooms in your home?

7 1 53 2 154 3 86 4 25 5 6 6 1 8

140 120 100 80 60 Frequency 40 20 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 8

Number of people that currently live in the property?

64 1 145 2 36 3 49 4 18 5 2 6

140 120 100 80 60

Frequency 40 20 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Question 3. How long have you lived in the parish?

7 Less than 1 year 46 1-5 years 40 6-10 years 41 11-15 years 51 16-25 years 150 26+ years

26+ years 16-25 years 11-15 years 6-10 years 1-5 years Less than 1 year

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 Frequency

242 respondents (71%) have lived in the parish for over 10 years.

Question 4. Have any members of your family/household left the parish in the last 5 years?

62 Yes 260 No

250

200

150

100 Frequency

0 Yes No

Question 5. If you answered yes to question 4, please state what relationship they have to you.

51 Child 1 Parent 2 Other relative 5 Other - please specify

Other - please specify Other relative

Parent Child

0 10 20 30 40 50 Frequency

Question 6. Please indicate the reason why they left.

18 Lack of affordable housing 13 To attend university/college 24 Employment 12 Other - please specify

Other - please specify

Employment To attend university/college Lack of affordable housing

0 5 10 15 20 Frequency

Question 7. Would they return if more affordable accommodation/suitable could be provided?

25 Yes 38 No

35 30 25 20 15 Frequency 10 5 0 Yes No

Question 8. Do you think the land adjoining Kemsing Station would be suitable for a housing development in Kemsing Parish?

184 Yes 140 No

180 160 140 120 100 80

Frequency 60 40 20 0 Yes No

57% of respondents who answered the question (54% of all respondents) thought that the land adjoining Kemsing Station would be suitable for a housing development.

Question 9. Would you support a small development of affordable housing on this site if there was an identified need for people with a strong connection to Kemsing?

200 Yes 129 No

200 180 160 140 120 100 80 Frequency 60 40 20 0 Yes No

61% of respondents who answered the question (58% of all respondents) said they would support a small development of affordable housing for local people.

Question 10. Would you support the provision of a number of 2 bed open market homes for older residents of Kemsing to downsize to?

215 Yes 108 No

200

150

100 Frequency 50

0 Yes No

67% of respondents who answered the question (63% of all respondents) said they would support the provision of open market homes for older residents of Kemsing.

Question 11. Please use this space if you wish to explain your answer to Q8/Q9/Q10.

There were 206 responses to this question; a full list of responses can be found in Appendix K1.

Question 12. Please state any other sites you think might be suitable for a local needs housing development in Kemsing.

There were 106 responses to this question; a full list of responses can be found in Appendix K2

Question 13. Do you or a member of your household need separate or alternative accommodation either now or in the next 2 or 5 years?

261 No 9 Yes, now 15 Yes, next 2 years 30 Yes, next 5 years

Yes, next 5 years

Yes, next 2 years

Yes, now

0 50 100 150 200 250 Frequency

54 respondents (16%) said they had a housing need now or in the next 2 or 5 years.

Section 2 – Housing Needs

Only those respondents who deemed themselves in need of alternative housing were asked to complete Section 2.

Question 14. Are you completing this form for yourself or someone else?

27 Self 17 Someone else

10 Frequency

0 Self Someone else

Question 15. If you are completing this form for someone else please state their relationship to you and where they currently live.

Respondents were mainly completing the form for their adult children living in the parental home

Question 16. Personal details of respondents are not included in this report.

Question 17. If you live outside the parish do you wish to return?

5 Yes 3 No 5

2 Frequency 1

0 Yes No

Question 18. If you live in the parish do you wish to stay there?

39 Yes 3 No

35 30 25 20 15 Frequency 10 5 0 Yes No

Question 19. What is your connection with Kemsing? Respondents were asked to indicate all connections that applied to them.

Local connection FREQUENCY I curre ntly live in Kemsing parish and have don e so continuously for 35 the last 2 years I have previou sly lived in Kemsing parish for at least 5 years 12 continuously and have immediate family who currently live there and done so continuously for the last 10 years I h ave lived in Kemsing parish for a total of 5 years continuously 20 during the last 10 years I am in p ermanent employment in Kemsing parish and have been in 6 this employment for at least the last year I nee d to move to Kemsing parish to take up permanent 1 employment I nee d to move to Kemsing parish to give or receive support to or 0 from an immediate family member

Question 20. What type of household will you be in alternative accommodation?

13 Single person 12 Couple 15 Family 0 Other

14 12 10 8 6

Frequency 4 2 0 Single person Couple Family Other

Question 21. How many people in each age group need alternative accommodation?

AGE 0 - 9 10 -15 16 - 19 20 -24 25 - 44 45 - 59 60 - 74 75+ Male 7 3 6 10 13 3 8 3 Female 3 1 5 2 14 5 9 3 Total 10 4 11 12 27 8 17 6

Question 22. Why are you seeking a new home?

Other Increased security Homeless/threatened with homelessness Alternative accom. due to age/infirmity Difficulty maintaining home Access problems To move to a better/safer environment Lodging New job Disability/disabled Divorce/separation Setting up home with partner Retirement To be nearer work To be nearer family Private tenancy ending Current home affecting health First independent home Present home in need of major repair Cannot afford existing mortgage Present home too expensive Need smaller home Need larger home

0 5 10 Frequency

Question 23. What is your current housing situation?

20 Owner occupier with/without mortgage 2 Renting privately 2 Renting from Housing Association 1 Shared ownership 0 Tied tenancy 17 Living with relatives 0 Other

Other Living with relatives Tied tenancy Shared ownership Renting from Housing Association Renting privately Owner occupier with/without mortgage

0 5 10 15 20 Frequency

Question 24. How many bedrooms does your current home have?

0 1 5 2 19 3 13 4 6 5+

Frequency 5

0 1 2 3 4 5+

Question 25. Are you an older person/household wanting to downsize/move to more suitable housing?

14 Yes 26 No

10 Frequency 5

0 Yes No

Question 26. Please tell us in your own words why you need to move and what prevents you from doing so.

There were 32 responses to this question; a full list of responses can be found in Appendix K3

Question 27. What type of housing do you need? The answers given relate to the type of housing respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

Type of Housing Frequency Accommodation suitable for older person/people 7 with disabilities (without support services) Accommodat ion suitable for older person/people 2 with disabilities (with on-site support) Flat 14 House 29 Other 7

Question 28. Which tenure would best suit your housing need?

Tenure Frequency Renting – Housing Association /St Clere’s 6 Shared Ownership – Housing Association/St Clere’s 10 Discounted market sale 8 Owner occupation 20 Self -build 1 Other 1

Question 29. How many bedrooms will you need? The answers given relate to the number of bedrooms respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need

4 1 22 2 9 3 3 4 0 5+

10 Frequency 5

0 1 2 3 4 5+

Question 30. Please indicate the total gross annual income of the household in housing need.

More than £80,000 £60,000 - £80,000 £50,000 - £60,000 £40,000 - £50,000 £35,000 - £40,000 £30,000 - £35,000 £25,000 - £30,000 £20,000 - £25,000 £15,000 - £20,000 £10,000 - £15,000 Under £10,000

0 1 2 3 4 5 Frequency

Question 31. What is your/your partner’s occupation?

There were 24 responses to this question; a full list of responses can be found in Appendix K4

Question 32. How much money could you raise towards the purchase of a property? The following answers were given: 1 x £10,000 2 x £60,000 1 x £100,000 3 x £150,000 1 x £180,000 2 x £200,000 1 x £250,000 1 x £300,000 1 x £350,000 1 x £500,000 1 x £650,000

Question 33. How much money would you be able to raise as a deposit towards buying your own home? The following answers were given: 1 x £5000 2 x £10,000 1 x £15,000 1 x £20,000 2 x £30,000 1 x £35,000 1 x £50,000 1 x £250,000

Question 34. Do you have any particular or specialised housing requirements? The following responses were given: • Need a large garage • No, but people don’t have enough savings to pay back help to buy in 5 years • Off-road parking due to job’s requirements • 3 bedrooms with garden • More bungalows are needed for the older generation • Would need accessible shower/wet room due to back injury • House on one level

Question 35. Are you registered on the Council’s housing register?

1 Yes 36 No

35 30 25 20 15 Frequency 10 5 0 Yes No

Question 36. Are you registered with the Help to Buy agent?

6 Yes 32 No

30 25

20 15

Frequency 10

5 0 Yes No

6. LOCAL HOUSING COSTS

To fully assess local housing need it is important to look at open market prices in the private sector of houses both to rent and buy.

Property for sale

Searches of www.rightmove.co.uk which markets property for a number of leading local estate agents, in September 2018, found the following cheapest properties for sale (under £500,000) in Kemsing.

Type of Property Number of Price Bedrooms £ Semi -detached house 2 280 000 Cottage 2 320 000

Semi -detached house 3 270 000 Terraced house 3 329 995

Detached house 4 425 000 Semi -detached house 4 499 000

Property to rent

A similar search for rental property found the following available:

Type of Property Number of Price £pcm. Bedrooms Flat 1 795 flat 2 950 Terraced house 2 1100 Semi -detached house 2 1275 Semi -detached house 3 1375 Terraced house 4 1500

Household income required to afford current market prices

Using local information, the table below shows gross income level needed to purchase a property in the area. The figures are calculated assuming a 15% deposit and using 3.5 x gross income. Monthly repayment is based on a 2 year fixed standard with HSBC at 4.19% (September 2018) 25 year mortgage term and is calculated using HSBC’s mortgage calculator.

It should be noted that in the current economic climate lenders have made the borrowing criteria for potential mortgagees stricter by requiring at least a 15% deposit, making securing a mortgage difficult for some first time buyers, especially those on lower incomes. Although there are higher LTV mortgages available, they tend to attract a higher interest rate.

Type of Property Price £ Deposit Gross Monthly (15%) Income Level Repayment 2 bed semi -detached 280 000 42 000 68 000 979 house 2 bed cottage 320 000 48 000 77 714 1119 3 bed semi -detached 270 000 40 500 65 571 944 house 3 bed terraced house 329 995 49 499 80 142 1161 4 bed detached house 425 000 63 750 103 214 1486 4 bed semi -detached 499 000 99 800 114 057 1642 house 20% dep required

To gauge the income level required to afford to rent privately the following calculations assume that 30% gross income is spent on housing. (A household is considered able to afford market rented housing in cases where the rent payable would constitute no more than 30% of gross income).

Type of Property Price Approx. Gross Annual income £ pcm £ 1 bed flat 795 31 800 2 bed flat 950 38 000 2 bed terraced house 1100 44 000 2 bed semi -detached house 1275 51 000 3 bed semi -detached house 1375 55 000 4 bed terraced house 1500 60 000

Using HM Land Registry data on house sales ( www.mouseprice.com ) using postcode area TN15 which lies within or includes part of the following towns, counties, localities, electoral wards and stations: Ash, Borough Green, Borough Green and Long Mill, Crouch, Downs, Fairseat, Farningham, Horton Kirby and South Darenth, Fawkham and West Kingsdown, Godden Green, Hartley and Hodsoll Street, Hildenborough, Hodsoll Street, Ightham, Ivy Hatch, Kemsing, Kent, Knatts Valley, Meopham South and Vigo, Otford and Shoreham, Platt, Plaxtol, Seal, Seal and Weald, Seal Chart, Sevenoaks, Sevenoaks Eastern, Sevenoaks Northern, Sevenoaks Town and St John's, Stansted, Underriver, West Kingsdown, Wrotham, Wrotham Heath, the average house prices in the last 3 months are –

1 bed properties £271,200 2 bed properties £376,400 3 bed properties £459,700 4 bed properties £759,200 5+ bed properties £1,335,900

To afford the average cost of a 1 bed property using the mortgage calculation shown above, a salary of £65,863 would be required. To afford the average cost of a 2 bed property a salary of £91,411 would be required.

Information provided by ‘mouseprice’ states that the average property in the TN15 area costs £636,500 with average earnings being £28,918. This means that the average property costs over 22 times more than the average salary. The source used by ‘mouseprice’ to assess price to earnings ratio is Calnea Analytics proprietary price data and earnings data – updated quarterly.

Affordable Rent

The Government has introduced changes relating to rents charged to new tenants of social housing from April 2011. Affordable Rent properties allow landlords to set rents anywhere between current social rent levels and up to 80% of local market rents. The following table shows housing benefit levels (known as Local Housing Allowance (LHA)) for the High Weald broad rental market area; Sevenoaks District Council have an agreement with their Housing Association partners to calculate, in the first instance where overall scheme cost permit, Affordable Rent at 80% of market rents or 100% LHA whichever is lower (unless viability is a key issue). Affordability of the rent can be achieved through the input of Housing Benefit where eligible.

Size of Property LHA Levels £pcm/Affordable Rent levels £pcm 1 bed 587 2 bed 765 3 bed 967 4 bed 1459

The table below shows income needed to afford the affordable rent levels using 30% of gross income as the indicator of what is affordable, for those who are not in receipt of housing benefit.

Property Price Gross annual £ pcm Income £ 1 bed 587 23 480 2 bed 765 30 600 3 bed 967 38 680 4 bed 1459 58 360

Shared ownership

To give an indication of respondents’ ability to afford shared ownership, levels of income and rent/mortgage have been taken into consideration on purchasing a 25% and 40% share of a property with estimated values of £271,200 for a 1 bed property, £376,400 for a 2 bed property and £459,700 for a 3 bed. Calculations are made using the Homes and Communities Agency’s market assessment calculator and assume a 10% deposit of mortgage share. These values are taken from information found at www.mouseprice.com

Property Share Deposit Monthly Monthly Monthly Monthly Gross price £ Required mortgage rent £ Service total £ Income £ £ charge required 271 200 25% 6780 323 466 90 879 31 696 271 200 40% 10 848 518 373 90 981 37 696 376 400 25% 9410 449 647 90 1186 42 733 376 400 40% 15 056 718 518 90 1326 52 318 459 700 25% 11 493 548 790 90 1428 51 472 459 700 40% 18 388 877 632 90 1599 63 897

Discounted market sale

The table below shows the amount of deposit and income required to afford this tenure. Homes are sold with a discount at least 20% below local market value. Values are taken from those found at Rightmove and Help to buy (see above). Calculations are based on a 10% deposit; eligibility includes being a first time buyer with a household income not exceeding £80,000. 3 bedroom properties have not been included as in order to afford that size of property an income in excess of £80,000 would be required.

Property Discounted Deposit Gross price £ price £ Required Income £10% required 271 200 216 960 21 696 55 790 376 400 301 120 30 112 77 431

7. ASSESSMENT OF HOUSING NEED

This section is divided into two categories; the need for affordable housing and the needs of older people in the parish requiring alternative housing, either affordable or open market. There were a total of 54 responses.

7.1 Assessment of the need for affordable housing

This analysis is divided into categories of those who need affordable housing now, in the next 2 years and in the next 5 years.

At this stage some respondents might be excluded if they do not want/are not eligible for affordable housing or if they do not provide sufficient information for an assessment of their eligibility to be made.

In total 40 respondents said they need affordable housing in the following timescales: • Now x 9 • In the next 2 years x 12 • In the next 5 years x 19

Assessment of the 9 households seeking affordable housing now

3 respondents were excluded for the following reasons: • 2 respondents wanted to buy on the open market only • 1 respondent did not indicate sufficient information for an assessment of their need to be made

The 6 households in need of affordable housing now are: • 3 x single people • 2 x couple • 1 x family

Single people – there were 3 single people.

Age Frequency 16 -19 1 20 -24 1 25 -44 1

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency First independent home 1 Need larger home 1 Other – To be ne ar family but 1 have own place

Current housing:

Current Housing Frequency Living with relatives 3

Current number of bedrooms:

Current Beds Frequency 3 3

Type of housing needed: The answers given relate to the type of housing respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

Type of housing Frequency House /flat/bungalow/ 1 accommodation without support services Flat/house 2

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Shared ownership/Discounted 1 market sale Renting HA/S hared ownership 1 Renting HA 1

Number of bedrooms required: The answers given relate to the number of bedrooms respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

No of bedrooms Frequency 1 2 2 1

Number of bedrooms respondents are eligible for is dependent upon tenure and Sevenoaks District Council’s allocation policy. See summary on page 41.

Household’s joint gross annual income:

Income Frequency £10,000 - £15 ,000 1 £20,000 - £25,000 1 £25,000 - £30,000 1

Occupation: • Student • NHS worker • Nursery nurse

Amount available towards purchase of a property: • £10,000 • £60,000 • £200,000

Amount available towards a deposit: One respondent did not answer this question • £10,000 • £15,000 • Not much at all

Particular or specialised housing requirements: • Would need accessible shower, wet-room due to back injury

Registered on the Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Frequency No 2 Yes 1

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 2 Yes 1

The respondents indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; they currently live in Kemsing.

The following table shows the respondents’ ability to afford the various forms of tenure they said they require plus affordability of open market housing to buy and rent.

It should be noted that actual affordability of the various forms of tenure required depends on income and the ability to pay the required deposit and other finances necessary to buy a home.

Income Number of Renting Shared Discounted Open Private respondents HA Ownership market market rent sale purchase £10,000 - 1 1 with HB 0 0 0 0 £15,000 £20,000 - 1 1 0 0 0 0 £25,000 £25,000 - 1 1 0 0 0 0 £30,000

It is assumed that respondents who cannot afford the housing association rent (affordable rent) will be eligible for housing benefit (HB).

Couples – there were 2 couples. One respondent did not indicate their partner’s age.

Age Frequency 25 -44 3

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency Setting up home with partn er 2 First independent home 1

Current housing:

Current Housing Frequency Living with relatives 2

Current number of bedrooms:

Current Beds Frequency 3 1 4 1

Type of housing needed: The answers given relate to the type of housing respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

Type of housing Frequency Flat/house 2

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Shared ownership/Discounted 1 market sale/Self-build Discounted market sale/Owner 1 occupation

Number of bedrooms required: The answers given relate to the number of bedrooms respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

No of bedrooms Frequency 2 2

Number of bedrooms respondents are eligible for is dependent upon tenure and Sevenoaks District Council’s allocation policy. See summary on page 41.

Household’s joint gross annual income:

Income Frequency £25,000 - £30,000 1 £40,000 - £50,000 1

Occupation: • Beautician • Marketing

Amount available towards purchase of a property: • £300,000

Amount available towards a deposit: • £30,000

Particular or specialised housing requirements: None

Registered on the Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Frequency No 2

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 1 Yes 1

The respondents indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; they currently live in Kemsing.

The following table shows the respondents’ ability to afford the various forms of tenure they said they require plus affordability of open market housing to buy and rent.

It should be noted that actual affordability of the various forms of tenure required depends on income and the ability to pay the required deposit and other finances necessary to buy a home.

Income Nu mber of Renting Shared Discounted Open Private respondents HA Ownership market market rent sale purchase £25,000 - 1 1 0 0 0 0 £30,000 £40,000 – 1 1 1 x 2 bed 0 0 1 £50,000

The responded earning £40k-£50k indicated wanting discounted market sale only but as they could not afford that tenure they were assessed for shared ownership.

Families - there was 1 family

Age Adult Age Adult Age Child Age Child AGe Family 1 25 -44 25 -44 0-9 M 0-9 M

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency Need large r home 1 Current home affecting health 1

Current housing:

Current Housing Frequency Shared ownership 1

Current number of bedrooms:

Current Beds Frequency 2 1

Type of housing needed: The answers given relate to the type of housing respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

Type of housing Frequency House 1 26

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Shared ownership 1

Number of bedrooms required: The answers given relate to the number of bedrooms respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

No of bedrooms Frequency 3 1

Number of bedrooms respondents are eligible for is dependent upon tenure and Sevenoaks District Council’s allocation policy. See summary on page 41.

Household’s joint gross annual income:

Income Frequency £40,000 -£5 0,000 1

Occupation: • Landscape gardener

Amount available towards purchase of a property: Not answered

Amount available towards a deposit: • £80,000 equity

Particular or specialised housing requirements: None

Registered on the Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Frequency No 1

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 1

The respondent indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; they currently live in Kemsing.

The following table shows the respondent’s ability to afford the various forms of tenure they said they require plus affordability of open market housing to buy and rent.

It should be noted that actual affordability of the various forms of tenure required depends on income and the ability to pay the required deposit and other finances necessary to buy a home.

Income Number of Renting Shared Discounted Open Private respondents HA Ownership market market rent sale purchase £40, 000 - 1 1 1 x 3 bed 0 0 0 £50,000

Assessment of the 12 households seeking affordable housing in the next 2 years

Six respondents were excluded for the following reasons: • 2 respondents did not complete Section 2 of the survey • 3 respondents only wanted to buy on the open market • 1 respondent is currently an owner occupier who wants affordable housing but they may not be eligible for that tenure

The 6 households in need of affordable housing in the next 2 years are: • 2 x couple • 4 x family

Couples there were 2 couples. The respondents did not indicate their partners’ ages

Age Frequency 20 -24 1 25 -44 1

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency First independent home 1 Setting up home with partner 2

Current housing:

Current Housing Freque ncy Living with relatives 2

Current number of bedrooms:

Current Beds Frequency 4 1 5+ 1

Type of housing needed: The answers given relate to the type of housing respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

Type of housing Frequency House 2

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Discounted market sale 1 Shared ownership 1

Number of bedrooms required: The answers given relate to the number of bedrooms respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

No of bedrooms Frequency 2 1 3 1

Number of bedrooms respondents are eligible for is dependent upon tenure and Sevenoaks District Council’s allocation policy. See summary on page 41.

Income:

Income Frequency £50,000 -£60,000 1 £60,000 -£80,00 0 1

Occupation: • Speech therapist • Operations manager

Amount available towards purchase of a property: • £200,000 + • Don’t know as yet

Amount available towards a deposit: One respondent did not answer the question • £40,000

Particular or specialised housing requirements: • £30,000 • No savings, just finished university

Registered on Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Frequency No 2

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 1

The respondents indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; they currently live in Kemsing.

The following table shows the respondents’ ability to afford the various forms of tenure they said they require plus affordability of open market housing to buy and rent.

It should be noted that actual affordability of the various forms of tenure required depends on income and the ability to pay the required deposit and other finances necessary to buy a home.

Income Number of Renting Shared Discounte d Open Private respondents HA ownership market market rent sale purchase £50,000 - 1 Not eligible 1 x 2 bed Not 0 0 £60,000 indicated £60,000 - 1 Not eligible 0 0 0 0 £80,000

The above household earning £60k -£80k are not eligible for rented housing and they have no deposit available. They will be excluded from the final summary.

Families - there were 4 families

Age

Adult Age Adult Age Child Age Child Age Child Age Child Age Family 1 25 -44 10 -15 F 16 -19 F 16 -19 M 16 -19 M Family 2 25 -44 0-9 M 0-9 M 10 -15 M Family 3 25 -44 25 -44 0-9 F 10 -15 M Family 4 24 -44 25 -44 0-9 M 0-9 M

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency Need larger home 1 Present home in need of major 1 repair To be nearer work 1 To be nearer family 1 To move to a better/safer 1 environment First independent home 1 Increased security 1

Current housing:

Current Housing Frequency Renting from HA 2 Renting privately 2

Current number of bedrooms:

Current Beds Frequency 2 1 3 3

Type of housing needed: The answers given relate to the type of housing respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

Type of housing Frequency House 4

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Renting HA 1 Shared ownership 1 Discounted market sale 1 Renting HA/Shared 1 ownership/Discounted market sale

Number of bedrooms required: The answers given relate to the number of bedrooms respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

No of bedrooms Frequency 2 1 3 2 4 1

Number of bedrooms respondents are eligible for is dependent upon tenure and Sevenoaks District Council’s allocation policy. See summary on page 41.

Household’s joint gross annual income:

Income Frequency Under £10,000 1 £30,000 - £35,000 1 £35,000 - £40,000 1 £40,000 - £50,000 1

Occupation: • Self-employed cleaner • Carer/support worker • Local government/Care home worker

Amount available towards purchase of a property: • £150,000 • £150,000

Amount available towards a deposit: • £5000 • £20,000 • £25,000

Particular or specialised housing requirements: None

Registered on the Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Frequency No 3

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 2 Yes 2

The respondents indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; 3 currently live in Kemsing and 1 lives outside but wants to return.

The following table shows the respondents’ ability to afford the various forms of tenure they said they require plus affordability of open market housing to buy and rent.

It should be noted that actual affordability of the various forms of tenure required depends on income and the ability to pay the required deposit and other finances necessary to buy a home. 31

Income Number of Renting Shared Dis counted Open Private respondents HA Ownership market market rent sale purchase Under 1 1 with HB 0 0 0 0 £10,000 £30,000 - 1 1 0 0 0 0 £35,000 £35,000 - 1 1 0 0 0 0 £40,000 £40,000 - 1 1 1 x 2 bed 0 0 0 £50,000

It is assumed that respondents who cannot afford the housing association rent (affordable rent) will be eligible for housing benefit (HB)

Assessment of the 19 households seeking affordable housing in the next 5 years

15 respondents were excluded for the following reasons: • 6 respondents did not complete Section 2 • 3 respondents wanted to buy on the open market only • 6 respondents did not indicate sufficient information for an assessment of their need to be made

The 4 households in need of affordable housing in the next 5 years are: • 4 x single people

Single people there were 4 single people

Age Frequency 16 -19 1 20 -24 1 24 -44 1 45 -59 1

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency First independent home 3 Present home too expensive 1 Retirement 1

Current housing:

Current Housing Frequency Living with r elatives 4

Current number of bedrooms:

Current Beds Frequency 2 1 3 2 5+ 1

Type of housing needed: The answers given relate to the type of housing respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

Type of housing Frequency Flat/house 2 House 2

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Discounted market sale 3 Shared ownership 1

Number of bedrooms required: The answers given relate to the number of bedrooms respondents sought/preferred rather than an assessment of their need.

No of bedrooms Frequency 1 1 2 3

Number of bedrooms respondents are eligible for is dependent upon tenure and Sevenoaks District Council’s allocation policy. See summary on page 41.

Income:

Income Frequency £15,000 -£20,000 2 £25,000 -£30, 000 2

Occupation: Cabin crew

Amount available towards purchase of a property: One respondent did not answer the question • £150,000 • Very little • £180,000

Amount available towards a deposit: One respondent did not answer the question • £10,000 • Very little • £25,000

Particular or specialised housing requirements: • None

Registered on Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Frequency No 4

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 4

The respondents indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; they currently live in Kemsing. The following table shows the respondents’ ability to afford the various forms of tenure they said they require plus affordability of open market housing to buy and rent.

It should be noted that actual affordability of the various forms of tenure required depends on income and the ability to pay the required deposit and other finances necessary to buy a home.

Income Number of Renting Shared Discounted Open Private respondents HA ownership market market rent sale purchase £15,000 - 2 2 with HB 0 0 0 0 £20,000 £25,000 - 2 2 1 x 2 bed 0 0 0 £30,000

It is assumed that respondents who cannot afford the housing association rent (affordable rent) will be eligible for housing benefit (HB)

7.2 Assessment of the housing needs of older households

Householders were asked to respond to the survey if they were older people who needed to downsize and/or move to more suitable housing for their needs; this included owner occupiers.

The analysis is divided into categories of those who require alternative housing now, within the next 2 years and within the next 5 years.

In total, 14 respondents said they were older households wanting to downsize/move to more suitable housing for their needs in the following timescales: • Within the next 2 years x 3 • Within the next 5 years x 11

Assessment of the 3 households who require alternative housing within the next 2 years

1 respondent was excluded because they did not indicate sufficient information for an assessment of their need to be made

The 2 households who require alternative housing within the next 2 years are: • 2 x single people

Single people – there were 2 single people

Age Frequency 60 -74 1 75+ 1

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency Alternative accom. due to 2 age/infirmity Present home too expensive 1 Need smaller home 1 Retirement 2

Current housing:

Current Housing Frequency Owner occupier 2

Current number of bedrooms:

Current No. Frequency 3 2

Type of housing needed:

Type of housing Frequency Accom. suitable for older 1 person/people with disabities without support/Other (bungalow) Accom. suitable for older 1 person/people with disabilities without or without support/Flat

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Owner occupation 2

Number of bedrooms required:

No of bedrooms Frequency 2 2

Income: One respondent did not answer the question

Income Frequency £15,000 -£20,000 1

Occupation: • 2 x N/A

Amount available towards purchase of a property: One respondent did not answer the question • Depends on house prices at the time

Amount available towards a deposit: One respondent did not answer the question • 100%

Particular or specialised housing requirements: None

The respondents indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; they currently live in Kemsing.

Registered on Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Frequency No 2

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 2

Assessment of the 11 households who require alternative housing within the next 5 years

1 respondent was excluded because they did not indicate sufficient information for an assessment of their need to be made

The 10 households who require alternative housing within the next 5 years are: • 2 x single people • 8 x couples

Single people – there were 2 single people

Age Frequency 60 -74 1 75+ 1

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency Increased security 1 Oth er (when absent 5 months 1 of the year) Need smaller home 1

Current housing:

Current Housing Frequency Owner occupation 2

Current number of bedrooms:

Current No. Frequency 3 1 5+ 1

Type of housing needed:

Type of housing Frequency Flat 1 Accommodation suitable for 1 older person/person with disabilities without support/Bungalow

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Owner occupation 2

Number of bedrooms required:

No of bedrooms Frequency 2 1 3 1 37

Income:

Income Frequency £20, 000 - £25 ,000 1 £40,000 - £50,000 1

Amount available towards purchase of a property: • £600,000

Amount available towards a deposit: • Would not need a deposit

Particular or specialised housing requirements: • House on one level

The respondents indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; they currently live in Kemsing

Registered on Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Frequency No 2

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 2

Couples – there were 8 couples. The table below shows the ages of all members of the household. One respondent did not indicate their partner’s age.

Age and Gender Frequency 45 -59 2 60 -74 11 75+ 2

Reason for seeking new home:

Reason Frequency Need s maller home 7 Alternative accom due to 2 age/infirmity Present home too expensive 1 Retirement 3 Disability/disabled 3 Access problems 1

Current housing:

Current Housing Frequency Owner occupation 8

Current number of bedrooms:

Current No. Fre quency 3 3 4 3 5+ 2

Type of housing needed:

Type of housing Frequency House 1 Flat/House 2 Other (Bungalow with garden) 1 Flat/House/Accom for older 2 persons/people with disability without support Accom for older 1 persons/people with disability without support/Other (bungalow) Accom for older 1 persons/people with disability without support/House

Tenure best suited:

Tenure Frequency Owner occupation 8

Number of bedrooms required:

No of bedrooms Frequency 2 6 3 2

Household’s joint gross annual income: One respondent did not answer the question

Income Frequency £15,000 -£20,000 1 £20,000 -£25,000 1 £30,000 -£35,000 1 £35,000 -£40,000 1 £40,000 -£5 0,000 1 £50,000 -£60,000 1 More than £80,000 1

Occupation: • Retired x 7 • Local government

Amount available towards purchase of a property: • Value of present home • Cash buyer • £250,000 • £350,000 • £650,000 • £500,000

Amount available towards a deposit: • Not relevant as we are downsizing • £50,000 (without sale)

Particular or specialised housing requirements: • Need a large garage • 3 bedrooms with garden

The respondents indicated at least one of the local connection criteria; they all currently live in Kemsing.

Registered on Sevenoaks District Council’s Housing Register:

Housing Register Fr equency No 8

Registered with the Help to Buy agent:

Help to Buy Frequency No 8

8. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

The summary is divided into two sections; summary of the need for affordable housing and summary of the need for alternative housing for older households.

8.1 Summary of the need for Affordable Housing

The survey has identified a need for up to 15 homes for local people who are in need of affordable housing; they are 7 single people, 3 couples and 5 families. 6 of the households need housing now, 5 in the next 2 years and 4 in the next 5 years.

The 15 respondents in need of affordable housing indicated strong local connections to the parish of Kemsing; 14 currently live in the parish and 1 lives outside but wants to return.

10 respondents are currently living with relatives, 2 are renting privately, 2 are housing association tenants and 1 is a shared owner.

1 of the households is registered on the Sevenoaks District Housing Register and 4 are registered with the Help to Buy agent.

With regard to occupation, 7 respondents indicated that at least one member of the household is a Local Essential Worker as defined in the emerging Sevenoaks District Council Local Essential Worker Policy (not all respondents indicated their occupation).

When asked how many bedrooms respondents sought/preferred, the following answers were given: 3 x 1 bed, 8 x 2 bed, 3 x 3 bed and 1 x 4 bed. Actual size of property will depend upon the council’s allocation policy and Help to Buy eligibility, see below.

In total, 7 respondents indicated an interest in shared ownership and 5 in discounted market sale (some respondents indicated more than one option); none of the respondents appeared to be able to afford the discounted market sale tenure. 1 respondent who indicated discounted market sale only, was assessed for shared ownership. In total, 5 households indicated that they may be able to afford a shared ownership property. More detailed analysis of their income, amount of deposit they have available and actual cost of the shared ownership property would be required to confirm affordability.

Taking into account, the council’s allocation policy, Help to Buy and discounted market sale eligibility, the mix of accommodation that respondents would be eligible for is:

Rented accommodation: • 7 x 1 bed • 1 x 2 bed • 2 x 3 bed

Shared ownership: • 4 x 2 bed • 1 x 3 bed

8.2 Summary of the housing needs of older households

The survey has found a need for 12 homes for older people who require more suitable housing; they are 4 single people and 8 couples. All 12 households currently live in the parish.

2 households require housing in the next 2 years and 10 in the next 5 years.

All 12 households are currently owner occupiers.

The most frequently given reason for needing an alternative home was the need for a smaller property; other reasons include alternative accommodation due to age/infirmity, retirement and disabled/disability.

The 12 older households who were owner occupiers said they require the following type and size of housing; they all want to buy on the open market: • 1 x 2 bed flat • 1 x 2 bed flat/house • 1 x 2 bed bungalow • 1 x 2 bed accommodation suitable for older person/people with disabilities without support • 1 x 2 bed accommodation suitable for older person/people with disabilities without support/flat • 2 x 2 bed accommodation suitable for older person/people with disabilities without support/bungalow • 1 x 2 bed accommodation suitable for older person/people with disabilities without support/house • 1 x 2 bed accommodation suitable for older person/people with disabilities without support/flat/house • 1 x 3 bed house • 1 x 3 bed flat/house • 1 x 3 bed accommodation suitable for older person/people with disabilities without support/bungalow

9. APPENDIX K1

Question 11. Please use this space if you wish to explain your answer to Q8/Q9/10.

Affordable homes for local people are vital

Insufficient smaller properties to downsize to in the village

Solve the problem. Birth control and immigration and not concrete over the UK

Already clogged with parked cars in Kemsing and Seal. Schools oversubscribed

We would think about downsizing if houses in Kemsing were available. We have a grandchild now in Kemsing so would want to stay local

This land is unused and can only benefit the local community. Great location

This proposal is solely for the benefit of St. Clere and will be fought tooth and nail

Infrastructure is totally inadequate - schools, doctors, public transport, roads etc. The character of Kemsing as a small country village will be changed forever

Not on this site. 300 homes will overstretch school and roads. This expanding the village too much. Seal and Kemsing will soon join up

This is a blatant attempt by the owners of the St. Clere site to profiteer from the development of land in the green belt by overloading it with small houses. It has no merit and will only spoil the village and over tax amenities

Q 10 would need transport/bus to local services e.g. library, doctors, shops

Lack of roads and likely worsening of already unsatisfactory traffic issues. Lack of space at the local school and already shortage in local GP services

There is a need for more housing, but have school places and GP capacity been considered?

Whilst affordable housing nationwide is needed this number for such a village as Kemsing would be too high. Seal and Wrotham would become absorbed with ever diminishing boundaries/open corridors. The loss of this (current) open space in such a beautiful area would be harsh and negatively impact nature. Better to utilise brown field areas and the newly vacated residential homes within the already rather sprawling village

Kemsing village is already impacted by high volume of traffic pollution which impacts onto Seal with new secondary schools. Already children can't get into primary school. This development wouldn't help environment and certainly not maintain a village

The whole reason that Kemsing parish is attractive is its rural feel and lack of housing density. Leave well alone. Owners and occupiers of St. Clere will not be affected by any new housing or infrastructure in Kemsing or Heaverham, as they are lucky to live at arm's length away from us mere mortals. This whole project is not altruistic but purely financial - they stand to benefit greatly from such a project. For crying out loud leave our beautiful green spaces and history well along. Londoners et al will end up living in a future local housing as is always the case. Go and make your money from some other quarter

The density is far too high for the area

It would spread out any traffic from the centre of Kemsing and would help locals to stay in the area especially the young and older residents who can't cope with the homes they live in and free up larger properties

The primary school is full and it is almost impossible to get an appointment at the doctors - large building projects require an increase in local amenities too

Site next to Heaverham Road PDL1GF, Sparshead Farm, PDL/GF, Park Lane, land near Church Lane, PDL/GF

I love the village and want to stay here. We want to downsize but there isn't many in the village on the market

The transport infrastructure in and out of Kemsing is already over capacity and another 300 houses would be chaos!

We do not think village can take any more houses because the doctors and school are full to capacity now; also the site is too far out for older people

Kemsing is part of the affluent area of Sevenoaks, building large numbers of affordable housing will ultimately downgrade the area even if described as Q10 for now

For older people it is too far to walk to the local amenities

Not on green belt around Kemsing

No infrastructure, e.g. doctors surgeries, schooling, post office. St. John's Hill practice has 10,000 with only 5 job sharing doctors. Exit roads from Kemsing to A25, to Seal and Otford - totally congested at peak times

Q 8 0 my answer assumes traffic management is safe with clear access. Q10 my answer has concerns how the open market is controlled to prevent sales to the well off

Regarding Q10 - I fear that young commuters need to be near to a railway station and not older people who need shops, libraries, etc. within walking distance

Q8 - 300 homes is a ridiculously large number and would ruin the rural nature of the hamlet of Heaverham. St. Clere has a moral responsibility to preserve the character of the area. Q9 - I would support the development of affordable housing on this site up to a maximum of 20 homes. Q10 - older residents don't want to downsize from the family homes that have so many memories for them, it needs to accommodate visiting children/grandchildren. General comment - the point of moving to Kemsing 20 years ago was to live in a semi-rural environment - please don't ruin it in a search for profit

The village infrastructure will to be able to cope with any more new builds, roads, school, amenities - no more houses

I love the area and would love to stay but struggling to find affordable 3/4 bed houses that would suit our family's needs

Kemsing is at its maximum size

I don't understand if Q10, means open market or if purchase is restricted to older people who live in Kemsing

It depends on what you mean by 'strong connection'

Kemsing is over populated already; traffic congestion poses a constant problem and danger. The local infrastructure cannot support any further housing - doctors, schools

We live in an area of outstanding natural beauty. This is why we moved here. Such development would ruin the rural environments and destroy the road infrastructure. It is partly a financial expedience

The amount of houses, traffic, lorries, rubbish has increased since we moved here and we think there is now enough

I think a smaller housing development, but 300 is too large when you think of the amount of additional traffic on the roads - especially if the plan goes ahead near Seal. Older residents need homes but infrastructure needs improving, buses, community minibus?

Not a good place for 300 homes. School already cannot cope, virtually impossible to get a doctor's appointment. Road already crowded. Things will only get worse

The current draft local plan has identified enough locations in the district to provide the homes you ae suggesting

Helps older people

I would support this but with all our local schools ready to burst where would even more children go to school?

Because Kemsing is already dense. Our lanes are busy and dangerous with heavy traffic. Already had one fatality

Only yes if it is truly intended for the local population and is affordable. Difficulties will be infrastructure (increased traffic as rural roads), and amenities i.e. doctors, school, etc., surgery already hugely oversubscribed

I drove through yesterday to find a large tractor coming towards me in a narrow lane in this area. I had to reverse back a long way before we passed a large van. This is not a suitable area for the expanse of 300 homes and cars

There is no infrastructure in Kemsing to support these residents. Doctors' surgeries and schools are overstretched, post office is closed, library under threat. The land for building on is on a flood plain posing a significant flooding risk to existing housing as well as new housing

Q 8 - Only if the roads are safer, wider. Primary school and GPs would have to support increase in numbers

This space should not be built on. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty - not an over packed enclave

Q 8 This is a long way from the village amenities for older people or young folk without a car, same applies to Q 9. Q 10 good idea but they would be a long way from the village

This would only work for older people if public transport is very available otherwise it could be too rural

Also l bed flats would be very good

Clearly there is a need for affordable smaller housing, rather than just more large, expensive houses. But any new development must not make congestion, parking problems in Kemsing worse

Facilities in the village cannot cope as it is i.e. roads, water, doctors, school. Increasing the number of people living in the area will make it worse

Local infrastructure in the whole of Kemsing is not able to support that level of further building

If houses were to be built at Kemsing station, roads would definitely need to be improved. Also depending on how many family homes a larger school would be needed as Kemsing is oversubscribed already. Also a doctors. Plus if you are providing for older people good transport would be needed in case they can't drive anywhere

Q 11 Yes if in Kemsing not the Chaucer

Downsizing is the first step forward

Q 8 - do not know area to be able to comment. Only lived in Kemsing 2 months

There could be access from the A25 that would not impact the existing village - obviously it would have to be improved

Subject to school places and GP service is fully available to new residents

This is a village not be turned into a town. Wildlife will suffer, hedges taken down etc. Roads are already terrible, do we want approx 600 more cars going in and out of the village - no

The attached page is our answer to Q11

Kemsing is a village which already struggles with traffic getting in and out. We do not have school places and the local doctors' struggles to cope

Homes for children of Kemsing people and old people downsizing

Q10 - we would support the proposal if the homes were to be detached bungalows at affordable prices

Q10 - answered yes but with proviso of public transport to get to shops etc.

I have a son with partner and child who need accommodation

It would be better to answer maybe! This site is not really part of the village - too far away for facilities such as church and school

Because we are already losing too much green and natural space in the UK. It would totally detract from the village. Whilst I recognise the need for housing in the UK I think more suitable, less green spaces should be found, such as brown field sites. We should be preserving our countryside particularly those who own such beautiful swathes of it and are in the lucky position to be able to conserve and protect it. Also Kemsing would not sustain the traffic for such a scheme

Kemsing is lucky to still have a lovely village feel. 600-1000 more people would change this drastically, no matter what you would do to the roads it wouldn't help with adding that many people (roads are fine now)

Q 10 Only for older residents or who can gain access to convenience stores on foot

Transport infrastructure needs to be improved before any development. Roads need to be widened, footpath along one side of road needs to be installed, bus that terminates at Noah's Ark should be extended to the station and A25 traffic needs to be reduced by better M25/M26/A25 intersection at Sevenoaks

l. Building on green belt is to be strongly objected to 2. There are already significant traffic problems at peak times getting in and out of Kemsing

We do not need any further developments in Kemsing. It is already too large! Leave green belt along

Traffic congestion, not enough school places, not enough doctors' surgeries

Downsize if properties were offered to existing residents first who want to upsize

Most elderly people would not be better off doing this and those with family would probably wish to leave house to them and would there also be new doctors and schools in the development

I support the proposal as shown on St. Clere web site. This questionnaire is a deceitful way of gathering support without a full explanation

You have always assumed elderly folk are mobile with their own transport. That is not always the case. Decent reliable public transport must be considered

New homes should be available to first time buyers

Yes to 8 only if property infrastructure in place, i.e. road improvements, 2 lanes increase in passing places useless. Water, sewage, gas, electricity reinforcement, school places, doctors surgery etc. need as well housing. No support if not from me

Although i am in favour in principle, I would like to see impact surveys on roads, facilities, etc.

Shouldn't be used to build large executive homes, affordable starter homes needed

It would be better if at least 25% of the housing was social rent not affordable rent

Green belt or if not should be spoilt by even more housing in Kemsing

Not enough infrastructure in the village, roads in poor repair, school is full, doctors' surgery no appointments

On the face of it, Q9 and 10 are simple but would need a) legally binding mechanism for controlling, re lets/resales and b) appropriate support for those downsizing because of age related needs and any restrictions on the sales of older residents' properties

As a homeowner in Kemsing, I would benefit from better connections and infrastructure around the local area, particularly to the station, shops and traffic control/roads

I have put 'yes' to Kemsing station idea but this would involve improvement to three access roads and destruction of much rural aspects, e.g. trees. Anybody living in new development would need more infrastructure, e.g. shops, doctors' surgery

So long as good provision was made for other infrastructure, e.g. roads, schools, etc.

Need to know more about the proposed traffic improvement in the locality, bus services extension, rail improvements and parking for station

Q8 - possibly. Q 10 - Not sure, if demand is proved. It's a long way from shops for older people, not on a bus route so difficult to access Kemsing or Sevenoaks facilities. We are already finding things a problem without a post office. It should be brought back in some shape or form. Can schools cope with higher intake?

Recognise need for social housing but would require GPs, schools, decent roads for access. I do not want building on green belt land. Need for public transport too

Q10 - completely depends on the amount and location. You can't answer this without more detail. Q11 I strongly feel that adding the amount of homes you are considering would destroy the village. We have moved from an area that did this and the crime levels increased dramatically as did the wait times for doctors. This is not the sort of thing a village would cope well with

Family sized homes i.e. 3 bedroom but not expensive executive type homes are needed in Kemsing, as are retirement homes

Q10 - concern for families moving into free homes if downsize happens. Q 11 I feel there would need to be greater transport routes (road, bus & train) and schools and GPs, the services are struggling as it is with significant current issues of vandalism and ASBO adding more likely to increase issues

Proviso - any infrastructure upgrades must be in place before first occupancy

Kemsing does not have the infrastructure in place to sustain an additional 300 homes. The doctors, schools and traffic are already oversubscribed. Q. 10 - possibly if the right location could be found

The roads in and around the area are already unsuitable for the number of cars

Any new development must be accompanied by improvements to road access to village as mentioned in your letter

Must have adequate doctors, schools and better roads

Q8 - definitely not viable, extension to the green belt. Q 11 The east of Kemsing in a natural barrier to urban Kemsing and an AONB

Q8 - subject to there being the appropriate infrastructure in place. 300 houses is a lot. Q11 - Kemsing village does not currently have sufficient local services to support such a development. The school is full. The site must have a shop or else 300+ residents will have to drive everywhere - on already busy roads

Q 10 - bungalow

It's in the middle of nowhere, and the access roads are not built for the amount of houses

Can Kemsing cope with the extra demand for doctors, schools, utilities and extra traffic?

Kemsing is a quiet rural village. I bought here for that reason and don't feel expanding it will improve quality of life. It will spoil the area and why so many move here

Kemsing is huge as it is. We need to protect the countryside. Open to some houses nut not 300.

Hopefully all the infrastructure would be in place

We want to live in a village surrounded by green fields and the countryside, not more housing estates. The application will be strongly opposed

Adequate road improvements will be essential

Local residents and families that have grown up here in Kemsing should not be out priced for a home

There is nowhere in Kemsing for elderly to downsize to, ideally with very small patio garden a single storey

Kemsing is already overdeveloped. None of the local roads can cope with the traffic as it is and no number of passing places will change that. No mention of additional strain on the school or doctors. This is just a ploy for St. Clere to make money dressed to make it look like we need it

Q8 - I don't know. How much land is involved? Q9 - Not if a large amount of land is involved. Q11 - I'm not in favour of a large development on green belt land

More housing will increase traffic etc. to a small village

It will put too much pressure on small local roads. Making passing places won't reduce traffic

To give a more meaningful response need more information of the exact location before making any comments. Re traffic congestion, narrow country lanes and amenities for older people. Whether the properties (affordable) would be freehold

There is not enough infrastructure in place. This needs to be done in advance of any housing plans

Infrastructure not here, not a large enough school, doctors, set of shops and library. Bus route not reliable enough at present. Bring too many cars and people into a small village and ruin countryside

You do not say where in relation to station. North is industrial estate. South are fields and regular habitat of birds, namely yellow hammer heard singing every summer and less common now

As a family we are struggling - my husband has slept on the sofa for the last 7 years. He is looking tired - with his own landscape business. My son hates sharing his bedroom due to sensory/anxiety and is also sleeping on the other sofa. He is 7

In the past a decision made that no development was made, that no development was to take place east of the church!

I feel there is already too much development in Kemsing. A development of this size would put an increased strain on local services and infrastructure, e.g. traffic and demand for school places

The need for affordable housing for young and old

Kemsing is congested enough already. No more large developments!

Q8 - Don't know the area well enough as we have only recently moved into the village

Your proposal could negatively impact the doctors surgery wait times and primary school places. What are your plans to mitigate this risk?

Comment 1 - this development would increase the Kemsing population by about 25% and would overload the already inadequate medical provision. Comment 2 - The 2 bedroom open market homes should be covenanted to prevent extension to 3 and 4 bedrooms

Kemsing needs smaller properties but not that far out of the village i) Green belt land should be protected. 2) A housing estate (actually a new village) would generate large numbers of car journeys in narrow lanes. 3) Young local residents would need school/doctors - both services are already stretched to the limit. 4) Wouldn't want to downsize to that spot - flood plain, flooding. No bus service, poor train service

I think this space is totally unsuitable for housing

Any scheme that would help young couples break the rent cycle with truly affordable housing strongly supported

Too much development already - this is supposed to be a semi-rural community

Kemsing is a village. A huge development is out of character with the surrounding area, and would cause more traffic on already busy roads

The land adjoining Kemsing station is ideal. In terms of additional traffic it can be accessed without going through the village. Kemsing needs a bigger variety of housing

The creation of new housing is important and perhaps inevitable. People have to live somewhere. Let there also be housing schemes for the young residents of Kemsing

What land are you talking about exactly? What infrastructure exactly - roads? services? impact?

Huge impact on local infrastructure. Roads are already overcrowded. We live in Kemsing and could not get into the local school. Already have greater than 3 week waiting time for the local doctors

Subject to appropriate transport provision - not increased traffic along West End/Heaverham Road

What do you mean by affordable housing? Whom are you targeting? Young or council?

This would increase the number of cars in the area, put pressure on the village schools and doctors' surgery

There is a much bigger need for young people to be able to get on the property ladder

Q10 - 2 bedroom properties needed not just for the elderly. All ages required them

Need to consider GP/health facilities - Otford/Kemsing GP is over full. Must be attractive if sustainable over long term, not another failed housing development

Much more information would be required before I would be willing to answer yes to these questions

The roads in Kemsing/Seal are congested enough - particularly rush hour. It is bad enough with the traffic from the Chaucer. The location is wrong for social housing due to poor transport

Q.l0 - There would be a need for transport as elderly people without cars would be isolated

Ideally this village shouldn't have any further development, but if it must, Kemsing station/Chaucer is the least environmentally damaging area to develop, provided local residents are catered for

The suggested development is far too large for the area

Lanes too narrow for cars etc. Weakening of bridge. Kemsing becoming too urban. Strain on facilities

More housing is needed. There is no room in Kemsing village. The only place with room is now the railway station. However roads will need to be improved and also easy access to shops is essential. Access to A25 also needs to be improved

My only concern is the distance from village centre especially for elderly

At the moment there are a lot of older residents who would downsize but don't want to leave the area

I would like to see provision for young teenagers within these plans, such as off road bike tracks, or a skate park. There is currently nothing for teens to do in this village

Current amenities/schools only just support the existing community. Serious concerns on local traffic implications

Serious lack of space at doctors - it's dire - no ability for improvement currently - more houses would make it much worse

I am not supportive of using green or countryside land for any building 50

This site is in the greenbelt and AONB and should not be developed for housing. The environmental damage will be extensive and irreversible. The Local Plan identifies sufficient sites for housing targets, so this site is not required. Local roads and infrastructure cannot cope with 300 additional homes

Too far out of the village away from school, shops, doctors, etc. No other property nearby so would stand out like a sore thumb in unspoilt countryside

As someone who has always lived in Kemsing it would be nice to be able to live close to my relatives without have to live in my family home once I've finished uni

Older residents may need other types of property i.e. single storey due to mobility. How would they get to shops from this proposed site? Also doctors etc. Who would administer the strong connection element? Like all housing developments in Kemsing and surrounding areas there is no thought of the infrastructure required to support such developments

Q8 - providing road infrastructure is improved. Q11 - the current road widths around Kemsing station are very narrow when accessed from the village. This is a concern if traffic increases

The surrounding schools, doctors' surgeries, roads, council facilities such as refuse connection are not adequate to support a housing development in Kemsing parish adjoining Kemsing station

Q8 - 10: The small roads around the area are at saturation point now with the amount of vehicles. New passing places created will not alter the traffic volume. 300 new homes equates to 600 vehicles and maybe more. Kemsing primary school is already a no go area at drop off/pick up. This just one example. There are plenty of other pinch points within the area which will become more congested

300 homes is far too many, far too large a development. Lack of infrastructure and services for so large a scheme. Too much environmental damage to such a fine rural area

The development would be a disaster for the local area. l. Huge safety issue: the roads in and around Kemsing (particularly Pilgrims Way) are exceptionally narrow and oversubscribed. 2. These houses would be contrary to govt guidelines in the NPPF on valued landscapes in respect of AONB 3. Complete lack of amenities/facilities: doctors/school too small to accommodate children from Dynes Road (e.g. our own children)

We already have too many houses and too many people in Kemsing. No infrastructure for any more - roads are already clogged

Q8 - area unknown

We feel the area proposed is the most suitable for a development such as this

Infrastructure is Kemsing unable to cope now. School full to capacity, doctors unable to deal with patients they have now! Traffic unacceptable now, any more on the road will be totally unacceptable, besides along West End

See attached note 1

Define affordable, by London prices/incomes or local?

It is important that social/affordable housing is genuinely affordable and remains in the social housing category in the long term to avoid being 'affordable' once and then unaffordable the next time it is sold

I cannot believe that you want to build 300 houses in such a beautiful rural area!! Increase of traffic through village, doctors' appointments and full school. Shame on you! 51

This is on the assumption that the infrastructure is improved to cater for these houses, e.g. schooling, healthcare, road infrastructure

I am opposed to any new houses on the green belt

We moved to a semi-rural location to escape suburbia. We do not have the provisions, schools, doctors, etc. or the infrastructure for the 600 cars that would come with the 300 houses. It would ruin village life

Most new homes appear to be large executive style developments which excludes many people

Keep your hands off green belt

1. Presumably green belt. 2. Several stretches of single track road in each direction. 3. Up to 600 extra cars would create traffic chaos, especially with 40 ton trucks already using Chaucer Industrial Estate. 4 Local infrastructure wholly insufficient. 5. Kemsing High Street would be in permanent gridlock. It's bad enough now

Our roads in West End Kemsing and Heaverham are already over used. Housing of this size would mean the road would not cope. Also it makes no sense for the housing to be so far from the village centre

I don't want or think it's appropriate to build on our local countryside or farmland. I'm strongly against this development plan

If the development supports older people there should be facility for shops, doctors and a bus route

Smaller development acceptable

I want to live in a village

I have answered yes, but that is subject to adequate investment in infrastructure - school/doctors' surgery capacity/road improvements and provision for shops and public transport

There are not enough smaller affordable houses suitable for older residents at the moment

300 homes sounds excessive bearing in mind the rural location and narrow country lanes. The offer of bike routes sounds like a sop. I don't trust ay large scale development to offer significant affordable housing - it's a means of getting planning permission and maximising profit

Any and all developments that destroy natural habitats of local wildlife particularly those on AONB should not be allowed

Not large houses but starter home at affordable prices or part buy/rent and some social housing

Unsuitable roads

Q10 proposed site too remote from village and other amenities e.g. buses

Good access to A25 and station. Houses are needed in Kemsing for young people so they don't have to leave the village - young people on average or below average wages. Also need 2 bed houses for older people. My concern is the 'open market' on these - 2 bed bungalows currently for sale @ £450,000 same value as 3 beds semis. We will need property at half that price so we can retire.

Village is already large enough. Medical facilities already over-stretched. Narrow lanes. No bus route/isolation unless you have a car.

I think this is a good idea in principle especially as Kemsing Station is detached from the village at present. 300 homes seems like too many as at present has no facilities i.e. shops/doctors etc.

I believe the lanes around Kemsing Station are too narrow to support a development of over 300 homes. Both Honey Pot Lane and through Noah's Ark are many places of single file road with passing places. Most houses have 2 cars so this means an additional 600 cars on these roads. I am also worried about additional schooling and doctors being unable to cope with such a large development.

Worried about capacity of roads, schools and doctors. Also loss of green fields. There is only a need for social housing.

It would be an intolerable burden on the local services and roads when both are already overloaded.

Most of the land is on green belt and it is green belt for a good reason. The roads are no way up to more traffic and it would cause a danger to all. No room at local school, doctor, clubs for children etc. Kemsing is a lovely VILLAGE 300 houses and not so.

I think this is a plan to suit the land owners not the locals - consider the volume of cars - schools - doctors.

I support the idea as long as the commitment to proportionate attention to additional infrastructure is met, if not it would be a disaster.

The land near to the station is not used presently and would be good for commuting as well as helping to link the station to the village. We need more quality affordable housing in Kemsing.

Understand need for housing for regular people with low to medium incomes. But would be very concerned over traffic (passing spaces would not be sufficient) and school spaces wand whether older people would actually move.

Greater need for starter homes.

11. APPENDIX K2

Question 12. Please state any other sites you think might be suitable for a local needs housing development in Kemsing

Not sure

We moved here for the countryside and this village is getting too built up!

Leave Kemsing alone. Dynes area is already a blight!

The proposed development for 300 homes will form Kemsing into a town. This is a village! Roads and school are not large enough

Front lawn of St. Clere House

Opposite library?

The disused field between Noah's Ark and Greenlands Road

Residential sites - Nightingale Road, land opposite Noah's Ark and adjacent to M26. Nil else suitable unless completely overgrowing the village. Fact is the village has grown to full capacity already

Being a resident of a very large village of Kemsing for 25+ years there are no suitable sites for housing development. Already over run with high volume of traffic pollution etc

None for that number of properties

See Q 11, Kemsing is already congested and road used as a cut through can't handle any more traffic

In full use, nearer Otford

None

Small developments spread out on the St. Clere Estate would stop the feeling of a new town being built as far away from St. Clere house as possible

None specifically but only on brown field sites, not fields. Road access doesn't support extensive expansion of the village (and I don't want to see road widening)

Farningham, West Kingsdown

Along south side of Heaverham Road, from (and including?) Wybournes eastwards

There are no suitable sites

Not sure but it looks like the school needs to expand. It needs to accommodate all children in Kemsing parish who want it and it has the space to grow

None - unless miraculously a solution is found to the congestion. Try escaping out of Kemsing in the morning!

There is no proof of this need for local housing. It has been marketed by those who see a financial benefit to themselves

Perhaps St. Clere's House could be converted to provide a few more homes

There is land opposite the library

None

It's hard as a lot sits within the AONB and part of living in this area is for the rural feel - too many houses and that will be lost. I say this as a 30 year old!

None

Fields at Heaverham

Never mind houses - we need public toilets like at Greatness Park. Hard to spend an afternoon at the pond without toilets

Kemsing was a village - now becoming a town!

This is a semi-rural area, the infrastructure is too small, i.e. doctors, primary school, local amenities to sustain such a development of this size

The council have made a commitment to brown fill sites, following a previous survey. It needs to honour its promises

Land opposite library on West End

St. Clere's Estate

Not really because if it's in the village traffic congestion would be even worse than it is

None

Any brown sites

No knowledge of other sites

None

Possibly extending Nightingale Road or behind Bentley's Meadows off Childsbridge Lane

None. Infrastructure is insufficient, schooling, doctors and roads are not adequate for more housing

Green at Collits Road, in fill long West End on south side

Anything else would involve infilling - not good

None

None - please leave this beautiful village as it is

None

Where the fair goes opposite Kemsing library

Infrastructure is a major hurdle; this is not being addressed in its draft plan

There are lots of local in fill possibilities. Finally we need a ban on more high price, 4/5 bed detached houses and particularly gated communities. Why live in a village shut yourself off from the community?

No thank you

None

Dynes Farm - redundant farmland (behind Rectory Mead and St. Edith's Court

Under used open space at Barnfield Crescent: probably suitable for up to 24 dwellings whilst still retaining a small area of open space

If you do the work you are considering this changes the landscape of the village considerably. You only have to look at the Dunton Green development to see promises are never fulfilled. Please do not pursue this

Area to the west of Kemsing where existing infrastructure exists

None. It makes sense to develop round the station and try linking this to the village but serious thought must be given to the size

We don't need any more houses

None

Land opposite Kemsing library

Not sure

Donkey field - area between Noah's Arm and Greenlands Road

St. Clere's front lawn

None

There are a number of areas already proposed in the draft local plans

None - it would be nice to keep it as green as it is

Lane situated in West End opposite Kemsing library which at present is overgrown with weeds and brambles

None

Don't know

None

Old Childsbridge Lane, Woodland Limited, site reference number :- HO57 (SDC)

I would only support a small scale development near to shops and on a bus route

None aware of - maybe the land between Kemsing and Otford

Chart farm land adjacent to Kemsing/Chart view

None

N/A

None

N/A

Childsbridge Lane E side adjacent to motorway bridge

None as the village is not overcrowded already, more suitable sites elsewhere

Outside the village envelope - none

None. We are really against further development because it is so difficult to get out of the village

Support in fill where appropriate

Possibly land between Kemsing and M26 and land off Childsbridge Lane but only if the roads infrastructure is improved at junction of A25 and Pilgrims Way widened

Opposite Kemsing library

None

Not qualified to answer this

Land opposite Kemsing library - closer to schools and other amenities

None. Kemsing is a village with limited road access and amenities. Building another 'village' worth of houses will be detrimental

None, Kemsing is already overdeveloped

Nowhere

None

Knatt's Valley/West Kingsdown

None - roads and public services are already too stretched

None better

Find a brownfield site

London West End north side overlooking Seal

Other sites on west end would clog roads even more - already long ques on Childsbridge Lane at busy times trying to get A25 to Otford. The old dog kennels in old part of Childsbridge Lane possibility but as mentioned would be congested.

Small development site between Castle Drive and M26

Field opposite the library.

St Clere land to the north close to the A20 would be better from the point of view of accessibility.

Not in Kemsing. It is a village surrounded by green belt areas of outstanding beauty. This is why I live here.

Left hand side of Childsbridge Lane going towards the railway bridge. Very concerned about inevitable increased use of narrow roads.

Nightingale area.

12. APPENDIX K3

Question 26. Please tell us in your own words why you need to move and what prevents you from doing so.

Preparing for older age

The children are at an age where they need their own space, but currently sharing a room - difficult for the older boy to study or have friends over, without impacting on his younger sister. I have lived all over the UK and would love to finally put my roots down. As a family we would also like to feel more settled by having our own place

Young person looking for affordable housing to buy in this area, to be able to carry on living in the area that I was brought up in and want to stay in

For my first home, currently too expensive

We feel that our present house is now too big for us and the upkeep, especially the garden is becoming a bit of a chore. The two reasons that prevent us from moving are l) we love the property too much so will be reluctant to go and 2) we have yet to find preferred accommodation close in to Sevenoaks

I foresee that age/infirmity will make my current property difficult to manage and maintain. Looking ahead to perhaps a flat with optional care. Wishful thinking!

Existing home suits all needs. Bungalow allows access to all rooms without stairs. However, large garden with nearly 100 yards of hedgerow boundaries and trees needing regular attention. House cleaning support needed for existing size and number of rooms

To be nearer work. Cost of buying/renting

Not currently applicable

I travel, need somewhere to lock up and leave during the winter

To set up a home with my partner

Recently married, want to set up home with new partner and move out of my parents' home which is too small for all us and lacks privacy. The cost of property in the area prevents me from doing this. Hesitant as how to qualify for these properties as I work in London

The three adult families wish to return to the parish they were born. However this should not be to the detriment of Kemsing which your scheme would be, which significant infrastructure upgrades. This is a non-starter

Council will not move me as am adequately housed but would be better off in Kemsing so I could work full time while my parents would child care my children. I can only work part time at moment

Cost of housing in area so might have to move out

We are living in very cramped home. Although there is a partition wall in the largest room the rooms are small. My son who is 7 is struggling with the limited space - I have included a letter from our doctor. Sadly Moat Housing never listen and we haven't been able to afford another home as prices too expensive

Not enough bungalows or smaller homes for elderly - all have been converted to larger homes!

Lack of affordable housing 59

No suitable retirement apartments in Kemsing

At present with an elderly relative. When she dies the house I live in will be split 3 ways and I would not be able to afford to buy out the other shares. Therefore would need smaller accommodation for myself. Anticipated in about 5 years

House prices are too expensive within SDC and parish, current rental is not kept in good condition by landlord, I wish to stay in the parish (I've live here and Otford all my life), my wife and children live separately but would like to move back to the parish if we could find affordable property to buy

We will need to downsize in a few years’ time and also pay off our mortgage. At the moment we do not wish to move yet as much work needs to be done to the house. I am retiring as well in a few months’ time and will need a smaller property in due course

After university I would like to move back to Kemsing but don't want to be living with my parents when I'm 25

To become more independent. Unable to afford property

My son will want to move out and be independent. Probably with a mortgage. 2 bed property would be ideal.

My daughter is 42 and needs her independence. Has been employed as a nursery nurse on minimum wage and is unable to afford mortgage or high rent on basic salary.

Progressive disability means current house will not be suitable in near future. Lack of bungalows

Living with parents, need my first independent home but lack the income for a mortgage to cover first house in area.

Want to have more security/roots in Kemsing - children at local school. Currently renting 'mates rates' couldn’t' afford to rent at full price or afford to buy outright.

I live alone in a 5 bedroom house. I would like to move to a smaller bungalow but there is nothing suitable in the area.

13. APPENDIX K4

Question 31. What is your/your partner’s occupation?

Last year of university

Retired

Operations manager

Both retired

Driver and NHS worker

Retired

Retail

Beautician

Marketing

N/A

Various

Carer/support worker

Retired

Own business, self-employed landscape gardener

Works in garage

Retired

Accountant

Self-employed cleaner (household)

Solicitor

Currently student at uni

Hairdresser campaigner

Speech therapist

Nursery nurse

Police officer

September 2018 Dear Kemsing Resident,

Housing for Local People at Kemsing Station

I write to you as a local resident of Kemsing Parish, to ask for your help in shaping St Clere Estate’s development proposals for the land around Kemsing Station. As you may be aware, we are in discussion with Sevenoaks District Council to determine whether the site can be included in the Draft Sevenoaks Local Plan for the delivery of up to 300 new homes plus community benefits. The Local Plan is still under consultation and everyone will have their chance to comment on the proposal once it has been submitted, and no decision will be taken by Sevenoaks District Council until then.

The community benefits we are proposing include connecting the station with Kemsing and Heaverham by new cycle and foot paths along with offering new station improvements and parking, community parkland, allotments and recreation space. Additionally we will be working with Kent Highways to look at ways of providing improvements to the road system to create new passing places, etc. to mitigate the impact of the extra traffic and hopefully relieve some of the problems on the roads around Kemsing for the benefit of all. Our particular goal is to ensure any new homes primarily benefit Kemsing Parish and we would like to provide as many affordable homes as possible as Local Needs Homes for people with a strong connection to the Parish. We would like to include homes for local residents who are key workers, those who want to move into their first independent home, young families, and older people in social housing who want to downsize from a larger family home. It is intended these homes would be provided in perpetuity to continue to meet local needs. We are also keen to help older owner occupiers who would like to downsize into more appropriately sized market housing. Such a mix of housing helps to keep families together, prevents loneliness, provides support networks and boosts demand for local services.

Unlike many developers, St Clere’s goal is not to build large, expensive houses or to cram in starter homes that have no space. Rather we want to build what the Parish actually needs and wants, and to make them attractive, environmentally friendly, with plenty of nature throughout and to ensure there is a real sense of community. In conjunction with Sevenoaks District Council, we have therefore appointed the independent consultant, Action with Communities in Rural Kent, to carry out a Parish-wide Housing Need Survey. They are very experienced in the preparation and administration of this type of survey and the contact person for this survey is Tessa O’Sullivan. We will use the results of this survey to base our plans on what you actually require. Please take the time to complete this survey. If you have family members who now live elsewhere, but would like to return to live in the Parish, please make them aware of the survey. Further copies of the survey form can be requested from Tessa on Tel: 01303 813790, or email [email protected]. If you live in Kemsing Parish but do not currently need new or alternative accommodation you only need to complete the first page, but your views would still be very welcome.

Please be assured, individual responses to the survey will remain confidential to Action with Communities in Rural Kent and will not be shared with us or the Council. The anonymous results will be given to us, and we also make those results available to Kemsing Parish Council to help them with their plans for the future

Please return your completed survey form in the freepost envelope provided, by 3rd October 2018 . Thank you for your help.

Yours faithfully, Eliza Ecclestone Managing Trustee, St Clere Estate