The parish council argue that the Motor Village will cause ‘inevitable extra traffic congestion along Pembury Road’. They also cite raised emission and parking concerns in the area among their objections.
The plans for the regional dealership hub for the Hendy Group were put out to consultation before a planning decision will be made by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.
In the objection to the proposals, the Clerk to Pembury Parish Council wrote: “In summary, we urge the Planning Committee to refuse this application, which we feel is wholly inappropriate for the site, and for Pembury. The Parish Council’s position is fully supported by our Borough Councillors and our County Councillor.”
A protest against the Hendy Motor Village is being organised on Saturday June 1 at 11am.
It is believed that Hendy took over the lease for the site in February.
A spokesman for the car dealership denied it would cause an increase in traffic in Pembury.
He said that the motor dealers had undertaken ‘detailed traffic surveys and projections’ for the Motor Village and the planning application includes a ‘detailed transport assessment’.
He continued: “It should be noted that when compared to the proposals for an extension to the Tesco Superstore – which has previously received planning consent – and the introduction of a Park and Ride service, our proposals represent a significant saving in traffic during the critical peak periods.
“Alterations would be made to the layout of the Tesco car park which currently operates below capacity and which will ensure it retains sufficient spaces to meet projected customer demand.
“Our Transport Assessment is being considered by Kent County Council, the Highways Authority, as part of the planning application and we remain in dialogue with them and other stakeholders.”
