Couple Forced to Sell as Plans Unveil 650 New Homes Surrounding Their House

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A couple claims they are being compelled to vacate their residence as a result of a new construction project having "ruined" the area. the view from their back garden.

Jacqueline and Terry Wheatley, aged 63 and 64 respectively, had been enjoying life in their separate home on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent for a decade when their peaceful existence was disrupted by the construction of a nearby residential development right next to their property line.

The couple feel 'boxed' in by the new homes with construction due to expand if plans for a 650 estate nearby gets the green light from council planners.

Mr. and Mrs. Wheatley claim that the estate, which is set to span across an area equivalent to 43 football fields on this small island, will attract thousands of visitors and lead to significant traffic disruptions locally.

Residents worry that the extensive new construction in an area already considered "overdeveloped" will likely get approval, even after a record-setting six-hour public meeting with a governmental planner.

The proposals for the new development are deeply disliked by certain groups, sparking a grueling three-year conflict between residents and the developers, MLN Land and Properties. Both sides remain steadfast without yielding anything.

The Wheatleys have opted to minimize their losses and make haste for one of the "scant few verdant areas" left on the island before their homes lose all value.

Mr. Wheatley stated, "We are putting it up for sale. The situation here is appalling; they've completely destroyed the island."

'This is terrible. They are overwhelming this island with an influx of people or things.'

When MailOnline toured the property earlier this week, we found ourselves surrounded by tall scaffolding from an adjacent construction project—not related to MLN's plans.

In the garden, a dilapidated brick arch lies broken on the ground, according to the couple, who say it was damaged by their neighbors' construction crew.

This incident proved to be the final breaking point for the couple.

Mr. Wheatley stated, "There has definitely been a transformation; previously, all I could see were fields stretching out in front of me and more fields extending behind me. This bungalow along with the one beside it used to be practically the sole structures dotting this stretch of road perhaps as far back as two decades ago."

We still have a modest mortgage on this property, but clearly our aim is to purchase one with no debt whatsoever.

'However, everywhere you go, construction is happening so you'll never be able to experience what we once had—the views and all the rest of it.'

Terry says his efforts to begin anew in another section of the island have been thwarted by local developers.

He continued: 'The price of my house has dropped at least 30-50 grand. I know prices have gone down with what's going on around the world, but I really don't think that's helped.

We've had a few individuals call us and stop by, but once they see what we have to observe in our garden every day, they simply say, ‘No way!’

The neighbor, Maggie Moon, who has resided in her house for 45 years, says that the island has deteriorated over time.

Ms. Moon, who is 82 years old, is concerned that the new initiative might lead to an increase in antisocial behavior and speeding.

She stated, "These ruffians zoom through here; they simply don't care."

When we initially relocated to this island, all those homes up there were picturesque, but now they're just part of the residential area.

When we first moved in, this wasn't even considered a proper road. You had to pull over frequently just to allow another vehicle to pass by.

But there aren't enough spots available. It's impossible to find a doctor; the island can't handle this situation.

The infrastructure is terrible, even managing to catch a bus around here can be miserable, assuming you manage to find one at all; frankly, we rarely make an effort anymore.

I groan and groan each time we depart; as you head down that path, you often remark about the blossoming wealth evident in those cars, something I have never witnessed before.

I’m growing tired of all these houses surrounding us. We’re completely enclosed. Isn’t that unfair? We feel trapped, but at our ages—82 for me and 86 for him—we aren’t about to relocate, are we?

Other inhabitants have only just begun their voyage.

Recently, retired educator Andy Brackley relocated to this neighborhood accompanied by his canine companion, Orla. His decision was driven by a desire to scale back and be closer to his children.

He informs us that he was unaware of the scale of the new development prior to purchasing the house.

He stated: "We have literally just settled in, I came across this information only the other day. There are approximately 650 homes, and the streets were already quite deteriorated; it’s unbelievable."

This was a charming peaceful rural road that made for a delightful stroll with my canine companion.

We moved from Medway, which was quite bustling; I expected more tranquility here but am disappointed because this large estate seems equally crowded.

It’s quite a mess actually; there simply isn’t any infrastructure here. No schools, stores, or even doctors can be found around.

'I'm not sure if they intend to do so. The real issue is with the roads; they are extremely busy right now.'

But actually, constructing 650 homes is akin to establishing a new city — it’s as though they’re building another island! That’s quite unfortunate.

During the negotiation process with Swale Council, MLN has consented to several permanent community amenities.

This encompasses constructing a community center, protecting land for a healthcare complex, and launching a new bus route linking the estate to Sheerness.

Outdoors, a multifunctional sports field, tennis court, bowling green, and garden plots will be constructed as well.

MailOnline has reached out to Swale Borough Council and MLN for their input.

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