The first phase of a new self build community in Ashford has been given the green light, with an outline planning permission granted for 25 self build plots in Kent. The sustainable development is the result of a partnership between Urbanise, a Kent-based developer, and Steenvlinder, the Dutch custom and self-build (CSB) home specialist that’s now operating in the UK.
The Orchard Farm site has been allocated for housing in the Ashford Local Plan, and the expectations is that the 25 self build opportunities will be the first of a much larger, up to 100-home, site to meet local housing demand.
Purchasers can choose from a range of plot shapes and potential house sizes to suit their budgets, with a Design Code and Plot Passports providing a framework for what is acceptable from a planning permission for the designs and styles.
The site in Kennington is on the northern edge of Ashford, and two miles from Ashford International station. Orchard Farm will appeal to anyone wanting an owner-commissioned home, with options for buyers to build independently or to opt for the help of an architect and builder working as part of the development.
With permission granted, Steenvlinder will be working to get the site operation for this first phase, ensuring that infrastructure, including roads, drains and services, are in place.
Adam Roake, Owner of Urbanise, said, “By partnering with Steenvlinder to create Orchard Farm, we are realising our ambition to change the way that housing is delivered. We will bring real choice to the housing market by enabling people to build their own home. Together, we will create an exciting, sustainable community unlike any other found in Kent.
“Some of the plans under consideration include community orchards and drainage systems that improve water quality. In addition, to reduce the community’s carbon footprint there will be no gas and the use of heat pumps, onsite electricity generation and community heating will be encouraged. No doubt many other sustainable initiatives will be brought forward by the self-builders.”
Hans Sparreboom, CEO and Co-Founder at Steenvlinder, said, “The Netherlands has led the way in innovation in the CSB housing sector and we’re now excited about helping the UK build back better with homes designed and built to last. Our continued mission is to make self-build accessible and pleasant for everyone involved.
“To enable buyers to embark on their self-build journey, we provide a dedicated customer coach who ensures they fully understand the process and then acts as a guide while they explore all the options available to them.”
Interested people can now pre-register for Orchard Park
Orchard Farm is being developed by Orchard Farm Kent Ltd., a partnership between Urbanise and Steenvlinder. Image shows Hans Sparreboom and Adam Roake on site in Kent.
