News


Homes plan submied for lodge site


APROPOSAL has been submitted to build 65 homes to the south- west of Postley Road, Maidstone. Chailey Homes’ plan includes


the demolition of an existing dwelling, The Lodge, to the north- east of the site as well as wooden sheds and stables in the south-west corner. The buildingswould be replaced


by amixture of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes, 26 of which would be affordable. The applicant says the decision to grant planning permission for 132 homes at Hayle Place Stud Farm opposite sets a precedent that favours the scheme. A supporting statement said:


“The proposed development should blend into its landscape and the features of the landscape value on the site should be retained and enhanced where possible.” It added that existing trees and


vegetation along the boundaries would be retained and enhanced. Maidstone Council will deter-


mine matters relating to access and layout of the outline planning ap- plication, with all other matters considered when a detailed pro- posal is lodged.


downsmail.co.uk


‘Café culture’ idea to enhance street scene


COUNCILLORS in Maidstone are praying for a sunny summer as they look at turning Earl Street into the hub of the town’s café culture. Plans to improve the paving and


extend pedestrian-only areas, to allow the expansion of tables and chairs into the street scene, are among items being discussed by the council in con- junction with landlords and tenants. Initial draft ideas include changes


to how – and when – traffic is allowed access to Earl Street. Affected busi- nesses have been asked for their input.


Flats allowed NEW housing is to be established above a restaurant at 33 Earl Street. In May last year, Maidstone Coun-


cil’s planning committee granted per- mission for Broughton House – the 17th century home of Andrew Broughton, who was court clerk in the trial of King Charles I – to be con- verted into an eatery. The council has now given the go-ahead for four one- bed units to be established on the first and second floors.


gather comments. We will then con- sult on the more detailed design. “The aim is to improve the café cul-


ture and remove non-essential traf- fic.”


Local traders, councillors and offi-


cers came up with ideas during a meeting at the Hazlitt Theatre. Maidstone Council’s head of envi- ronment and public realm, Steve Goulette, said: “The meeting was to discuss some initial concepts and


Eastern promise


WAGAMAMA has opened its 100th UK restaurant in Maidstone – the chain’s fourth Japanese-inspired restaurant in Kent. The Earl Street venue, which seats


107, has created 40 jobs in the town. Operations director Glyn House


said: “We have come a long way from our humble beginnings and we are excited by the opportunities for expansion.”


Mr Goulette said the council was seeking to replace paving and review traffic access. He added: “The fund- ing will come forward as new devel- opment takes place.” The project is part of wider im-


provements planned for the town, to includeGabrielsHill andWeek Street. Consultation in those areas will start later in February or March.


Sushi restaurant ANEWrestaurant serving sushi is set to replace the former Army Careers Information Office at 60 Earl Street, Maidstone. Legal & General has submitted a change of use planning application that will be determined by Maidstone Council. The planning agent, Jones Lang LaSalle, did not confirm if the pro- posed restaurantwould be a chain or independent business.


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