Heritage Party Supports Local Residents in Landmark Planning Victory

Heritage Party Praised for Strategic Legal Support

The Heritage Party is proud to support the residents of East Malling, Kent, in their successful campaign to stop a large-scale housing development on historic orchard land. After months of coordinated effort, and with the backing of local campaigners and Heritage Party members, the council voted to reject the application, despite initial signals that approval was imminent.

“This is a victory not just for one community, but for the principle that local voices must be heard,” said Heritage Party parish councillor and county council candidate Sean Turner. “The council was pressured by residents armed with facts, legal knowledge, and a shared respect for their landscape and heritage.” (watch here)

More than 200 objections were submitted, and 23 speakers addressed the public meeting, including Kate, a local resident who gave a powerful speech exposing the flaws in the planning process. Among the issues raised:

• Ecological surveys were carried out in the wrong season—violating proper environmental protocol.
• No clear housing need was demonstrated.
• The site included Grade II listed land, a factor overlooked in the proposal.
• Council officers had previously attempted to override a committee vote using constitutional powers, raising concerns about procedural fairness.

The Heritage Party provided legal guidance and strategic support throughout the campaign, working alongside committed residents and, in some cases, sympathetic councillors from other parties.

“This wasn’t about politics,” said Sean. “It was about defending what matters—our environment, our heritage, and the democratic right to say ‘no’ to destructive developments.”

The Heritage Party commends everyone involved in the campaign and urges communities across the country to take this as proof that resistance works when done calmly, lawfully, and with clarity.

“This win proves that when people stand up with the right tools and shared purpose, the agenda can be pushed back. Councils are supposed to represent residents—not developers, NGOs, or unaccountable third parties.”

The Heritage Party will continue to support local action, defend planning integrity, and stand with residents determined to protect their land, the wildlife , nature, heritage, identity, and future.

They’re trying to take everything that matters—your land, your vote, your voice. We’re here to stop them. On 1st May, stand with us. Vote Heritage.