New Homes Approved in Graveney – What It Means for the Local Market

 

A long-running planning battle in Graveney, a small village between Faversham and Whitstable, has reached its conclusion – with a developer winning the right to build 27 new homes following a successful appeal.

Developer Skylark Kent had originally submitted proposals for two housing sites in the village, both of which were refused by Swale Borough Council. However, after taking the decision to appeal, the Planning Inspectorate has now overturned the council’s refusal on the larger scheme, allowing development to go ahead on land off Seasalter Road.

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What Was Approved – and What Wasn’t

The appeal decision clears the way for 27 new homes to be built on the larger of the two proposed sites. A second, smaller development of eight homes on land west of Head Hill Road was dismissed and will not proceed.

When the plans were first submitted in 2023, Skylark Kent was seeking permission for up to 48 homes across both sites. Following consultation and significant local objection, the proposals were scaled back – but even the revised scheme was refused by the council in late 2024.

Strong Local Feeling

With a population of around 500, Graveney residents voiced concerns that the village was already under pressure. Objections referenced nearby infrastructure and landscape changes, including the substantial solar farm development close to the village.

Swale Borough Council cited harm to the countryside and the volume of objections in its refusal. However, the Planning Inspectorate ultimately took a different view, concluding that the benefits of the development outweighed the perceived harm.

Community Contributions

As part of the approved scheme, the developer has agreed to a package of section 106 contributions totalling £322,903, supporting local schools, libraries and healthcare services across Kent. The plans also include provision of a playing field for Graveney Primary School.

While earlier versions of the proposals included a communal car park and a new village hall, these elements were not part of the final approved scheme.

Why This Matters for Homeowners in North Kent

Decisions like this are a timely reminder that planning outcomes don’t always stop at a council refusal. When wider housing supply pressures are taken into account, appeals can – and do – succeed, even in smaller village locations.

For homeowners and buyers in North Kent, new developments can influence:

• Local housing supply and buyer choice
• Demand for existing homes
• Perceptions of village growth and long-term change

Understanding how planning decisions affect your area is an important part of making informed property decisions.

Thinking About Selling or Moving?

If you’re a homeowner in Graveney, Faversham, Whitstable or the surrounding villages, planning changes like this could have an impact on your property’s value.

Book a free property valuation in Kent with Quealy & Co today:

https://www.quealy.co.uk/properties-valuation  

Our local experts will give you clear, honest advice based on current market conditions – and the planning decisions shaping our area.

For tailored guidance, get in touch with us at hello@quealy.co.uk or call 01795 505754.

Source: Kentonline, Swale Borough Council, Skylark LLP.