A community-focused future for Oast Park
We are developing a revised proposals for the former Oast Park Golf Club site on the A228 at Birling, with the aim of delivering a high-quality development that puts the local community, landscape and environment first.
The land has been unused for some time, following the closure of the golf course and driving range in 2017. Our long-term vision is to transform the site into a well-designed, accessible and welcoming place that provides much-needed new homes alongside generous public open space and community facilities.
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What is being proposed?
The revised proposals focus on creating a development that feels integrated, open and genuinely beneficial to the wider community. The emerging plans are likely to include:
- Around 20 acres of retained and enhanced green space in the north-east of the site, providing publicly accessible walking, running and cycling routes
- A grass football pitch for community use
- A small community hub with a modest car park, with potential for public toilets, a small café and flexible meeting or office space
- Approximately 320 new homes, with 50% provided as affordable housing
- A varied mix of homes, including houses, apartments and opportunities for self-build
- A new dedicated access into the site from the A228 at Castle Way
Importantly, the revised proposals no longer include a football stadium or floodlit sports pitches, allowing the focus to remain firmly on homes, open space and facilities that can be used and enjoyed by the local community.
Have your say
A programme of consultation and communication with the local community is currently being prepared, with further details to be shared shortly. Local feedback will play an important role in shaping the proposals as they continue to evolve.
We welcome your thoughts and encourage residents to take part in the conversation.
Submissions for this consultation are now closed.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to review the proposals and share their feedback.
Listening and responding
The emerging proposals reflect feedback received through previous planning discussions and ongoing dialogue with Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council. They take a sensitive and considered approach to landscape impact, access and the long-term needs of the area.
Following discussions with the Council, the site has been carefully reviewed in the context of current planning policy, including land that is no longer serving a clear purpose and may be suitable for sustainable development.
This process has helped shape a more balanced and refined vision for Oast Park.
We are seeking local views ahead of submitting an outline planning application later this spring.
Respecting Birling and its surroundings
The scheme is being designed to minimise landscape impact, maintain a clear buffer between Snodland and Birling, and protect the distinct character and identity of both settlements.
Careful consideration is being given to layout, scale, landscaping and planting to ensure the development sits comfortably within its surroundings and enhances, rather than detracts from, the local environment.
A well-connected location
The Oast Park site is strategically located and benefits from strong transport connections by road and rail.
The M20 and M2 are both easily accessible, while high-speed rail services to London St Pancras can be reached from nearby Snodland station. London Bridge, Charing Cross and London Victoria can also be accessed within around an hour from West Malling.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why is Oast Park being considered for development?
The former Oast Park Golf Club has been unused since the course closed in 2017. The site is no longer serving a clear recreational or economic purpose. The revised proposals aim to bring the land back into positive use in a way that balances new homes with public open space, community facilities and environmental considerations.
What is actually being proposed on the site?
The emerging proposals include a mix of new homes, publicly accessible green space and small-scale community facilities. Key elements are likely to include:
- Around 20 acres of retained and enhanced green space
- Walking, running and cycling routes open to the public
- A grass football pitch for community use
- A small community hub with potential café, toilets and flexible space
- Approximately 320 homes, with 50% provided as affordable housing
- A new dedicated access from the A228 at Castle Way
These proposals are still evolving and will be shaped by community feedback.
Does this mean a football stadium or floodlit sports pitches are planned?
No. The revised proposals do not include a football stadium or floodlit sports pitches. These elements have been removed so the focus can remain on homes, green space and facilities that are accessible and appropriate for the local community.
How will the development affect traffic and access?
Access to the site is proposed from the A228 at Castle Way. Traffic impact will be carefully assessed as part of the planning process, and any necessary improvements or mitigation measures will be identified to ensure safe and efficient access for residents and visitors.
Will the development affect the gap between Birling and Snodland?
Protecting the distinct identity of Birling and Snodland is a key principle of the revised scheme. The proposals are being designed to maintain a clear buffer between the two settlements, with open space and landscaping playing an important role.
What about the impact on the landscape and countryside?
The scheme is being designed to minimise landscape impact. Significant areas of open space will be retained and enhanced, and careful attention will be given to layout, building heights, planting and screening to ensure the development sits comfortably within its surroundings.
How much affordable housing is being proposed?
Around 50% of the new homes are expected to be affordable housing. This reflects local need and will include a range of tenures to support people who live or work in the area.
What types of homes will be built?
The proposals include a varied mix of homes, such as houses and apartments, alongside opportunities for self-build plots. This mix is intended to meet the needs of different households, including families, first-time buyers and older residents.
Will the green spaces be open to everyone?
Yes. The retained green space, walking and cycling routes, and community football pitch are intended to be publicly accessible, providing opportunities for recreation, exercise and enjoyment for local residents.
When will a planning application be submitted?
An outline planning application is expected to be submitted later this spring.
How can I share my views?
Please complete the survey on our website.
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