A defeated county council Ukip candidate has mooted the idea of standing as an independent in the general election to highlight opposition to housing developments in the Sittingbourne area.

Mike Baldock, who was narrowly defeated in the Swale West division by Conservative candidate Mike Whiting, says he could stand as an “anti-housing” candidate to draw attention to the widespread opposition locally to a number of developments.

He posted on his Facebook page:

“OK, I'm floating this idea for comments. I'm not particularly convinced about it myself but having been approached by several people I have agreed to offer it as something for people to consider.”

“Do people think it is worth me running in the General Election as an Independent Anti-Housing Plan Candidate? Personally I believe May is heading for a huge majority and Gordon Henderson will be returned as our MP again locally. However his record on defending the area against the ludicrous housing levels has been woeful.”

“I do not expect to win, but if people think it's worth running and we can get 5000 votes or so it will keep the housing issue high profile and send a message to Gordon that he needs to do a lot more to defend his constituents.”

"I wouldn't want this to be about me but as an opportunity for local people to demonstrate their frustration with the Housing Plans that will destroy our town and the surrounding villages, and which the current Conservative administrations are pushing through regardless.

Your thoughts either way would be appreciated.”

Mr Baldock, who is a borough councillor for Borden and Grove Park, said he had not considered if he would have to resign from Ukip and disclosed that he had already received offers to help fund his campaign.

“We are in unchartered waters. I’ve not really considered the repercussions but already had some offers of support which is good.”

Mr Baldock has been at the forefront of a campaign to stop plans for several hundred homes being built in Borden. He is chairman of the Borden Residents Against Development group which has campaigned against a scheme for 600 homes on the edge of the village.

The deadline for nominations is Thursday - meaning that he has little time to decide.