Plans to build 99 new homes on land At (Os 8570 4841) Napleton Lane Kempsey have triggered a strong community response, with local residents now organising a protest to demonstrate opposition to the development.
The scheme proposes nearly 100 new dwellings on land many consider core to the village’s rural character. Despite the developer positioning it as a contribution to local housing need, residents argue it will irreversibly alter Kempsey and place a strain on already overstretched services.
What’s Being Proposed
The development would introduce:
- A large estate-style housing block
- A mix of market and “affordable” homes
- New access roads and infrastructure on former agricultural land
Concerns quickly surfaced due to the scale and location of the project. For many, this is not “sensible planning” but more piecemeal expansion at the expense of community needs and open countryside.
Why Residents Are Opposed
1. Infrastructure Can’t Cope
Locals stress that:
- GP and dental services are already difficult to access
- Schools are nearing or at capacity
- Traffic congestion is worsening, especially at rush hour and school times
Adding 99 more homes – potentially 200+ extra residents – feels unsustainable.
2. Loss of Farmland and Rural Character
Village identity matters. One resident described the plans as:
“Another boxy estate with no regard for the landscape or the heritage of the village.”
3. A Pattern of Overdevelopment Without Investment
Kempsey has seen several large developments approved in recent years, yet residents argue:
- Infrastructure hasn’t been upgraded
- Public services haven’t kept pace
- The village risks becoming a commuter suburb rather than a rural community
Resident Reaction
Feedback from the community has been clear, consistent, and strongly worded.
“We’re not against housing – we’re against bad planning.”
Many residents recognise the need for new homes, but believe developments should be located responsibly and with the necessary infrastructure to support them.
“Nothing is being done to fix the pressure we already feel.”
Residents point out that existing problems – GP access, school places, parking, and road safety – remain unresolved. Adding more homes without addressing these issues is seen as irresponsible.
“If this goes ahead, Kempsey changes forever.”
People worry about the long-term impact:
- More traffic
- Higher pollution
- Loss of green space
- Urbanisation of previously rural land
Several have said that the village risks losing the feel that made it a place people wanted to live in the first place.
“The protest isn’t about politics – it’s about our village.”
Organisers emphasise that this is a community-driven action. Residents from all parts of the village – including parents, retirees, commuters, and long-standing families – are uniting to voice concern.
“We’ve already seen large developments in the last decade. Where are the improvements?”
New estates have been built, but:
- No new GP surgery
- No new school capacity
- No road improvements
- No investment in public facilities
- No upgrade in public transport
People are asking: Where is the balance?
A Protest Is Now Being Organised
With frustration mounting, a protest is being coordinated to show planners and decision-makers the weight of public opposition. Details will be announced shortly on local channels.
Organisers hope for a strong turnout to demonstrate that this isn’t a small group of disgruntled residents – it is a village-wide concern.
What This Means for Kempsey
If approved, the development will reshape the southern edge of the village and potentially increase pressure on services already under strain.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Stay informed
- Attend parish and district council meetings
- Submit formal objections
- Join the protest
- Speak to neighbours about the implications
For many, this is about the direction of Kempsey as a whole.
Do we continue approving major developments without investment in services – or do we push back and demand sustainable planning?
