A 'virtual' public consultation has opened for a proposal to build 56 new homes in Hythe.

The new development, dubbed Alder Court, would include 24 houses - 18 three bed and six four bed - plus 32 extra care apartments, which would be a combination of 20 one bed and 12 two bed.

It is being proposed for Tanner’s Hill in Saltwood on a 5.3 acre site and would be adjacent to the retirement development at Mulberry Court and Saltwood Care Centre.

The proposals also include enhancing the riverside footpath to "create an attractive pedestrian route into Hythe", creating areas of open space and installing a variety of bird and bat boxes, as well as new tree and hedgerow planting to encourage wildlife.

Documents state: "The overall aim will be to provide a natural, attractive environment around the new houses and apartments."

The plans are being brought forward by GSE Property Investments, part of Ashford-based GSE Group - who are also behind the plans to create a multi-million pound leisure and spa extension at the Hythe Imperial Hotel.

Designs will come from Hollaway, the architect team behind Rocksalt in Folkestone and the plans to renovate the Leas Pavilion, also in Folkestone.

The plans for Tanner's Hill have been outlined on a new website, set up in lieu of a public consultation during the coronavirus outbreak.

The site notes: "In accordance with government guidance during the Covid-19 crisis we are unable to hold a public consultation event.

"This website presents the proposed Alder Court scheme and seeks the views of local residents.

"Members of the public can ask questions via the feedback section, which will be answered by the project team, and these will inform the scheme’s final design prior to the submission of a planning application."

In 2017, outline planning permission was approved to construct 84 extra care apartments on the site with access and landscaping.

But GSE have now redesigned the scheme to deliver the mix of private homes and extra care apartments.

Following the consultation, the project team expects to submit a planning application by the end of August, with the hope that a decision will be taken before the end of the year.

If approved by Folkestone and Hythe District Council, it is expected that construction work would begin in 2021.

Josh Healey, director of GSE Property Investments, said: "Alder Court, designed by Hollaway, the award-winning local architect, would offer high quality family and independent living, close to Hythe High Street."

The consultation is open until July 15. Visit here.

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