“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.
Currently, the Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s local plan 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. This discrepancy raises serious questions about the sustainability of such ambitious housing goals.
In a stark warning, Tugendhat pointed out that “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 underscores the urgent need for a reevaluation of the housing targets set by the government.
The situation has been exacerbated by a moratorium on development in Tonbridge and Malling, which is currently in place due to ongoing water supply issues. Tugendhat’s concerns are echoed by local authorities, who have seen mandatory housing targets increase by 34% in Tonbridge and Malling and by 63% in the neighboring Sevenoaks district since the last general election.
Alison Bennett, a representative from South East Water, added, “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 statement highlights the broader implications of the water crisis on local development.
As Tugendhat initiated a debate in Parliament regarding these pressing issues, he emphasized, “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.” His call to action reflects a growing frustration among constituents and local leaders alike.
With the government facing criticism for its lack of urgency in addressing the water supply crisis, the future of housing development in Kent remains uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed as discussions continue.