Residents asked to help shape future of Kent Downs

Just 93,000 people live within the Kent Downs, more than a million people live within a kilometre of its boundary

Swale residents have been asked to help shape the future of the Kent Downs by sharing their views during a consultation.

The Kent Downs National Landscape Team aims to update the management plan for the important designated national landscape, which is one of 46 across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Villages including Milstead, Bredgar, Doddington, Painters Forstal, Eastling, Badlesmere and Selling are all part of the Kent Downs, which stretch from the white cliffs of Dover to the Surrey and London border.

The consultation remains open until 20 November.

Councillor Dolley Wooster, chair of Swale Borough Council's environment and climate change committee, said the landscape needs to be "closely managed to protect the Down's unique charm".

She said: "It isn't only full of stunning views, there are animals and plant life that can't be found anywhere else in Britain.

"The management plan is key to enhancing its natural beauty, supporting farmers, and helps guide planning and development within the area."

The Kent Downs, together with the High Weald National Landscape, covers 33% of the county's land area.