“It is completely irresponsible for the Government to pursue the housing target set for the district,” declared Tom Tugendhat, the Conservative MP representing Tonbridge, as he addressed the pressing issue of housing targets in Kent.

Tugendhat’s comments come amid growing concerns over the sustainability of these targets, particularly in light of severe water supply limitations. The Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council has mandated the construction of 19,746 homes by 2042, a figure that has raised eyebrows given the current infrastructure capabilities.

According to South East Water, the organization responsible for managing water supply in the region, it can only accommodate a maximum of 6,318 additional homes by 2042. This stark contrast has led Tugendhat to warn that if the government’s targets are met, more than 13,000 new homes in Tonbridge and Malling will have no water coming out of their taps.

The situation is further complicated by a moratorium on development in Tonbridge and Malling due to ongoing water supply issues. Tugendhat emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “The government clearly needs to sort this out for our community now, and make changes to prevent this from happening elsewhere in the United Kingdom.”

Adding to the discourse, Alison Bennett from South East Water highlighted the implications of the lack of water infrastructure, noting, “The lack of water infrastructure is blocking our capacity to deliver more homes and is resulting in water outages such as those in West Kent.”

Since the general election, mandatory housing targets have surged by 34% in Tonbridge and Malling and an alarming 63% in the Sevenoaks district. This rapid escalation has prompted Tugendhat to initiate a debate in Parliament, urging a reevaluation of the government’s approach.

The criticism directed at the government has been palpable, with many constituents expressing frustration over what they perceive as a lack of urgency in addressing the water supply crisis. Tugendhat’s advocacy for a more responsible housing strategy reflects a growing sentiment among local leaders.

As the situation unfolds, the community awaits further developments from the government regarding potential adjustments to the housing targets, which appear increasingly untenable given the current water supply constraints.

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