Maidstone Borough Council has officially approved plans for a significant redevelopment of the former Royal Mail sorting office at Maidstone East, which will feature 180 new apartments and 20,000 square feet of commercial and community space.
As demolition of the existing structures nears completion, the project is poised to reshape the town centre, contributing to the Council’s ambitious housing strategy.
Councillor Stuart Jeffery, leader of the council, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “This redevelopment is a pivotal part of our plans, and we believe it will be transformative for this area of Maidstone, providing high-quality homes right in the heart of the town.”
Councillor Simon Wales, who oversees housing and homelessness, noted that the council will take the lead on the project and has secured £2.1 million from the Brownfield Land Release Fund, allocated by the Department for Local Government Homes & Communities. This funding has facilitated essential preliminary works on the site.
With planning permission now secured, the council is also looking to access additional funding from Homes England for social housing initiatives, as well as exploring the possibility of incorporating a health facility in collaboration with the local NHS.
Looking ahead, the council plans to select a contractor for the construction phase and finalize the mix of housing types within the next year, aiming to commence building soon after. This project represents a significant step toward addressing local housing needs and revitalizing Maidstone’s urban landscape.
Image credit: Maidstone Borough Council
