A plot of land earmarked for homes which would be “squeezed in” between rows of Victorian terraces has hit the market.

The site off Burrow Road in Folkestone is up for sale for £200,000 after receiving approval from the Planning Inspectorate to demolish derelict garages in favour of one house and two flats.

The applicants, a Mr and Mrs Brown, launched the planning appeal on the grounds that Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) had not made a decision for almost two years.

Now, residents who previously feared the new dwellings would overwhelm their old Victorian streets are concerned a new developer could take on the 5,381sq ft L-shaped plot and force more homes on the land.

Mary Lawes, who has lived near the site for 21 years, said: “The primary motivation for the owner appears to have been about profit, as the land is now up for sale.

“I spoke to a resident who expressed concern that a developer may purchase the plot and attempt to build even more on it.

“The Labour Party’s approach suggests they intend to dismiss locals’ concerns, adjusting planning rules to prioritise housing developments over community objections.”

More than 30 objections were registered against the original proposal on FHDC’s planning portal, which was submitted in November 2022 and finally discussed by the council last August.

Residents feared the squeezing in of more properties would add to the serious issues already plaguing the busy street, including the lack of parking in an oversubscribed permit zone as plans allocated only one space proposed for each flat.

Concerns also arose surrounding the height and scale of the development, with additional balconies overlooking the gardens of Burrow Road.

Speaking on the potential sale, Tracey Callender, who has lived on the street for the last five years, added: “We’ve all been shocked that the Inspectorate didn’t take into account, not only our local objections, but ignored the local council’s decisions.

“How often can things be refused only to be turned around by a higher level?

“Many of the old folk are worried about all the implications that we’ve stated repeatedly, but we have been beaten into submission somewhat by the constant battle.

“It will be a major concern when a developer buys it with the fear that things will get added.

“We’ve lost residents and friends whose one main reason for selling was the inability to park outside in their own street.”

In August, FHDC’s planning committee finally resolved it would grant the scheme approval if the appeal process had not already been underway, with seven votes for and four against the plans.

Documents submitted by planning agent Ian Bull Consultancy said the plans would deliver “an appropriate and sustainable new development for Folkestone”.

Motis Estates, which is marketing the site, also says the plot will provide great access to the harbour area of the town, which has recently undergone mass rejuvenation.

On its website, the Folkestone-based property agency added: “We are pleased to offer a residential plot of land which has previously secured planning permission.

“The subject property is well positioned with easy access to the harbour, which is in the process of extensive development and the Harbour Arm with a number of local eateries and bars.

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“The final proposal for three units features a one-bedroom house which reflects the existing character of the area, continuing the street scene and encloses the entrance to the site.

“The remaining two plots are two one-bedroom apartments, both of which have gardens and parking spaces.”

The applicants have been contacted for comment.