OAKHILL HOUSE, HILDENBOROUGH, TONBRIDGE

PROJECT

We were instructed by Berkeley Homes in relation to their planning application for a proposed scheme at Fidelity Internationals site at Oakhill House, Hildenborough, Tonbridge. The Listed Building Application consisted of a redevelopment of the site to include conversion, extension and alteration of existing office buildings and conversion and alteration of Grade II listed office building to create 138 apartments and shared residents facilities, together with 27 houses within the grounds, including access, parking, hard and soft landscaping and areas of open space.

APPROACH

We have initially prepared a Scoping Note to gauge pre-app response from Kent County Council and then the Transport Assessment and Travel Plan in support of the planning application. We also took part in the Design Meetings, working collaboratively with the wider team.

We have worked with the Project Team and provided comprehensive input to the design of the masterplan, including the Site access strategy, for this Detailed application. Pedestrian prioritised streets were included as part of the scheme, securing the future sustainability of the site with a comprehensive network of paths for walking and cycling.

Cycle parking was provided in accordance with KCC standards and located in convenient and secure areas, either within the garage or car port or within shared cycle storage provided in the existing lower ground floor of the Phase 1, 2 and 3 building.

OUTCOME

The Transport Assessment concluded that the proposals were in line with National, Regional and Local Policies and, overall, would result in a beneficial impact on the local area. Resolution to grant planning permission was secured at committee in March 2021.