The proposed development, which included plans for 288 houses and a crematorium on the site of the former Mabledon Hospital, was turned down by the Deputy PM following a public inquiry in Dartford which ended in April.

Dr Stoate, who has consistently opposed the proposed development said: “I am delighted that the Deputy Prime Minister has decided to turn down this application. It is a great victory for the local community which fought long and hard against this proposed development.”

The Mabledon site is a green field site which is totally inappropriate for a housing development on this scale. There simply aren’t the resources or infrastructure in the area to support a development on this size. It would place far too much pressure on local roads, schools and health facilities and would lead to the destruction of an important green space in the borough.”

“We need more affordable housing in the borough but the Mabledon site is not the place for them.”