Quinn Estates has scrapped its plans to build 3,750 new homes around Northbourne.

In an announcement, the developer says the decision to drop the ambitious scheme - which also included schools, shops, restaurants and a doctors’ surgery - is due to public opinion.

The project came to light in March 2019 when a brochure was leaked.

And despite Mr Quinn saying he thinks he could bring back Marks & Spencer to the area through the scheme, it attracted strong opposition.

Instead, the Kent based firm has said it will shift its attention to a significantly smaller and more sustainable development around Betteshanger Country Park.

The country park site is already for sale due to the financial woes of Hadlow College and Quinn Estates has always been believed to be one of a number of organisations interested in purchasing it.

Quinn is also responsible for the ongoing construction of 142 new homes off Albert Road and a relief road connecting the site to Southwall Road.

It could be that Quinn's new plans would bridge the gap left between this site and the country park, however no further information is being given.

Huw Evans, managing director of Quinn Estates said: “We have listened to a number of key stakeholders and local residents in Northbourne, Finglesham and Eastry and have chosen to make this decision as a result of the public opinion.

“Quinn Estates will instead be focusing on a significantly smaller and more sustainable development around the Betteshanger Country Park. We would like to thank the local people for their views and passion; hopefully people can see that our company listens and responds to public opinion.

“We look forward to working with all of the parish councils, Betteshanger Park and Deal Town Council to deliver a scheme that both ourselves and Deal can be proud of."

Campaign group Save Finglesham Fields which was set up to oppose the plan have welcomed the news.

They held public meetings attended by hundreds of people and compiled a 30-page document outlining concerns which was sent to Dover District Council.

Spokesman Dan Edelman said: “We are delighted that Quinn Estates have dropped their plan to develop our beautiful green fields in Finglesham and appreciate their listening to us.

"We will continue to campaign for a more holistic approach to housing developments across the whole of Kent."

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