“It is completely irresponsible for the Government to pursue the housing target set for the district,” stated Tom Tugendhat, the Conservative MP representing Tonbridge. His remarks come amid growing concerns about the feasibility of housing targets in Kent, particularly in light of significant water supply issues.
Tugendhat’s call for action is underscored by the local plan of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, which mandates the construction of 19,746 homes by 2042. However, South East Water has indicated that it can only supply water for a maximum of 6,318 additional homes by the same year.
In a stark warning, Tugendhat noted, “More than 13,000 new homes in Tonbridge and Malling will have no water coming out of their taps, if the government gets its way.” This alarming statistic highlights the potential crisis facing new developments if current housing targets are maintained.
Mandatory housing targets have surged by 34% in Tonbridge and Malling and by 63% in the Sevenoaks district since the last general election. This rapid increase has raised eyebrows among local leaders and residents alike, particularly as there is currently a moratorium on development in Tonbridge and Malling due to water supply issues.
Critics have pointed to the government’s lack of urgency in addressing the ongoing water supply crisis, with Tugendhat emphasizing the need for immediate action. “The government clearly needs to sort this out for our community now, and make changes to prevent this from happening elsewhere in the United Kingdom,” he asserted.
Alison Bennett, a representative from South East Water, echoed these concerns, stating, “The lack of water infrastructure is blocking our capacity to deliver more homes and is resulting in water outages such as those in West Kent.” This highlights the broader implications of the water supply crisis on housing development in the region.
As discussions continue, local councils and stakeholders are expected to push for a reevaluation of the housing targets set by the government, advocating for a more sustainable approach that takes into account the existing water supply limitations.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any immediate changes to the housing targets, but the situation remains a pressing issue for residents and local authorities in Kent.
