Otterpool Park – a Garden Town for the Future
The Leader of Shepway District Council says he is delighted that its bid for government support for a new Garden Town in Shepway has been successful.
Cllr David Monk said: "In response to a government call for Expressions of Interest in garden settlements, we submitted a bid. I am delighted that Otterpool Park - a Garden Town for the Future - has been chosen.
"Housing Minister Gavin Barwell's announcement of support and capacity funding of £750,000 means we will be able to pursue our ambitions to create a new community where our children and their children can live, work and play.
"I have already met with many people, businesses and local parishes to discuss our ideas but nothing is set in stone yet. We do know that over the next 30 years we will need more homes and jobs for our children and grandchildren. Many in my generation have done well for themselves. I feel a deep obligation to make sure that we do not deny future generations the same opportunities that we had."
The council and its partners will now work with residents in the district to develop a masterplan for Otterpool Park, so that a planning application can be submitted. The masterplan, shaped by the community, will enable forward planning of the necessary utilities and services, as well as infrastructure requirements including roads, schools and medical facilities.
This very long-term project, lasting for at least 30 years, will be developed gradually and shaped by the views and preferences of local people and businesses through ongoing and consistent engagement and consultation.
Consultation with the local community will start very soon. The first events are scheduled for December 2016 and further details will be available shortly. Topics for consideration include architecture, infrastructure and sustainability, as well as landscape, public realm and transport.
The concept of a garden town, which combines the best of town and country living, has been successfully demonstrated by places such as Letchworth and Welwyn Garden City.
It remains as relevant today as when it was first introduced more than 100 years ago.