Framework masterplan and report published

21 March 2018

The framework masterplan for Otterpool Park – a proposed garden town near Folkestone in Kent – has been published, unveiling dynamic proposals for investment in high-quality homes, jobs, green space, services and facilities that will serve the area for decades to come.

The proposals address the desperate need for housing locally and create exciting new opportunities for residents by making connections between communities, with businesses and education providers and with the rest of the UK and beyond.

The garden town principles that guide the design means that green outdoor space forms a major part of the plans, emphasising healthy living and well-being. New transport links will be provided for walkers, cyclists and road users, opening up the landscape, and connections to Otterpool Park’s rich heritage and history will be re-established.

Andy Jarrett, spokesperson for Otterpool Park, said:

“We want to do more than just provide the homes we need locally. We will invest to create a thriving community where people can live a happy, healthy life from birth to old age.

“The feedback we’ve received from the Shepway community so far has allowed us to create a masterplan that reflects the ideas and needs of our residents and employers and will go a long a way in helping us achieve our ambition of a garden town for all.”

The masterplan, following research, testing and engagement with stakeholders and the community, lays out plans for:

• Around 10,000 homes built over 30 years, for people of all needs and aspirations
• Community facilities including health services, community halls, retail and leisure space
• Six primary schools, up to two secondary schools and eleven nursery schools
• Over 40% green space in total, including woodland, wetlands, meadows, allotments, retained farmland, sports fields and parks, plus green buffering for existing communities
• Up to 8,000 new jobs with land for business use
• New transport connections across the development to open up access and take pressure off existing routes

The framework masterplan has been prepared by consultants on behalf of landowners Shepway District Council and Cozumel Estates. The masterplan will be considered by Shepway District Council’s Cabinet on 28th March and a planning application for the project will be submitted later in 2018.

To find out more about the plans for Otterpool Park, contact the team otterpoolpark@pillorybarn.co.uk.