A caravan has gone up in flames on the site of a controversial encampment.

One fire engine was called to the scene off Birling Road, Leybourne, where caravans have set up camp next to ancient woodland.

"Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a caravan alight in a field off Birling Road, Leybourne, near West Malling," a spokesman said with the crew attending at 2.06am and leaving at 2.59am this morning.

"One fire engine attended and crews extinguished the blaze.

"No casualties were reported. The cause is not yet known."

Last week, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council (TMBC) issued a temporary stop notice and a planning contravention notice for the site, which is the subject of a pending planning application for two stables.

The stop notices were designed to prevent any more work being carried out on the site, or anyone living there, but neighbours say this has been flouted.

West Malling and Leybourne Borough councillor Nick Stapleton (Lib Dem) said: "Without knowing the cause of the fire, it is difficult for me to comment.

"But it just adds to the whole situation, doesn't it?

"I can imagine it is rather shocking to see that out your window."

Tom Tugendhat MP said: "Our community is rightly worried at what’s going on and have been in contact with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council about the possibility that some are breaking planning law at Leybourne Chase.

"This morning's fire was very worrying and I’m grateful to Kent Fire and Rescue Service for their courage in tackling it. TMBC are doing what they can to sort this problem as quickly as possible but they need help.

"Please do report any changes to planning.enforcement@tmbc.gov.uk. I will keep a close eye on this important issue and do what I can to help."

Prideaux Planning Ltd, acting as the agent on behalf of the landowners, say they were not aware of the situation and therefore cannot comment at this stage.

TMBC have also been approached for comment.

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