Campaigners have hit out at plans to build more homes next to a former colliery where developers have already got permission for 165.

Some argue people in the area already have six-week waits for doctor appointments, and claim the outskirts of Deal will be unable to cope with more development.

Redrow Homes Ltd wants to use land adjoining the former Betteshanger Colliery, having gained planning permission for the main mass last year.

It argues it will now build fewer homes than previously allowed as Dover District Council (DDC) originally gave the nod for up to 210 homes under outline plans.

Developers currently hold detailed permission for 165 properties, but have now asked planning officials at DDC if they can increase that figure by 10 - a move that has angered campaigners.

Sue Sullivan, from the pressure group Friends of Betteshanger, said: “We have been utterly dismayed at the comprehensive clearance of habitat and wildlife on the Redrow site at a time when nature everywhere is under such unrelenting pressure.

“Any extra development will only intensify the pressure on the species that are the subject of mitigation measures, such as the nationally rare Grass-Poly and add further unwelcome pressure on roads and local services.”

Sholden Parish Council is also against the 10 extra homes.

Its written submission said: “The increased number of dwellings will impact the outer road network, infrastructure and parking through excessive vehicles using the A258/A256.

“In addition the health and education services in the Deal area are already overwhelmed - up to six weeks’ wait for a doctor's appointment.”

Redrow, of Ebbsfleet Valley, is arguing it is already reducing the original mass of homes.

A spokesman said: “Outline planning permission was granted to deliver up to 210 homes, however we have chosen to deliver a lower density scheme totalling 165 homes on the site, including affordable housing.

“We have since made an application to include an additional 10 homes within the existing development area on site, ensuring the protected habitats are preserved.

“In addition to much needed, energy efficient new homes, we are also making £1.5 milllion in contributions towards local services including education, youth services, social care and NHS, and sporting facilities.”

The current plans approved by DDC include a three-storey apartment block and two-storey houses mostly three- or four-bedroomed.

A total of 30% of the homes are set to be affordable.

The development is also for 2,500 sq m of office floor space and 150 sq m of retail space.

It is near the old pit head and adjacent land of the former Betteshanger Colliery, which closed in 1989.

A total 15 letters had been sent to DDC objecting.

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Some people then complained there was no infrastructure to support this application, such as doctors' and dental surgeries, school and hospitals.

They added that the roads are already at capacity, without space for more traffic.

A decision on the extra 10 properties will be made by planning officers at DDC.