Maidstone: Plans submitted for care complex amid 'critical' need

The project will be built on a site the size of 12 football pitches off Heath Road, Linton, Maidstone

Plans have been submitted for new care facilities in a village amid a "critical" need for housing for the elderly.

The complex will consist of a 73-unit care home, a 14-unit supported living block for autistic adults, a new 12-bed hospice and up to 70 affordable bungalows for the elderly.

The complex has been earmarked for land in Linton, near Maidstone, Kent.

An internal deadline of 21 February has been set to decide on the plans.

The project is led by Heart of Kent Hospice, Aspire LPP, Coral Living and Stonebond.

Documents submitted on behalf of the applicants by DHA Designs state: "While the increase in the ageing population has been clear for decades, there has been a significant shortfall in the delivery of new care provision.

"Maidstone has seen a steady decline in small independent care homes over the past five years, with the construction of new accommodation failing to keep pace."

They added: "The need to provide housing for older people is therefore critical."

As part of plans, the Heart of Kent Hospice in Aylesford, opened by Princess Diana, is to relocate.

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