Residents of Sandway, a hamlet in Kent comprising just 17 houses, are voicing distress over the appearance of five unauthorised traveller sites within the past nine months. This surge in encampments, visible in aerial photographs showing multiple caravans along local roads, has led to complaints from villagers who claim it has negatively impacted their quality of life and devalued their properties.
Several residents, speaking anonymously due to fear of reprisal, have called on Maidstone Borough Council to address the situation. They describe a feeling of unequal application of rules, contrasting their own need for planning permission for minor alterations with what they perceive as a more lenient approach to the traveller sites. Concerns have also been raised about environmental issues, including the disposal of wastewater and the burning of fires.
One recent development near the Wishful Thinker pub involved the removal of hedges and installation of services. Residents reported this to the council, which initially deemed the land requested for horse grazing with no planning breach. However, a retrospective planning application has since been submitted for the site, which residents believe represents a double standard.
Cllr John Britt, chairman of Lenham Parish Council, confirmed six sites in and around Sandway. He noted that the issue stems partly from a lack of a clear local plan policy to guide where Gypsy, Traveller, and Show people's (GT&S) communities might settle. He stated that the last formal assessment of need for such communities was in 2011, leaving a policy gap.
Some residents have expressed more sympathetic views, noting that the travellers have not caused problems and questioning the distinction between travellers and others seeking affordable housing. One long-term resident stated that the travellers need somewhere to live, and the lack of designated sites contributes to the issue.
A spokesperson for Maidstone Borough Council acknowledged the residents' concerns and stated that investigations into planning issues and complaints are ongoing. The council indicated that it would not comment further while these investigations proceed.