The Church of England has revealed long-awaited plans for 240 homes on land it purchased in the 1980s. The proposed site is at the edge of the huge Finberry new-build estate in Ashford.

The Church Commissioners for England, which manages the CofE’s investments and land ownership, has submitted an environmental impact assessment scoping report to Ashford Borough Council (ABC). The document suggests the Church is eyeing a plot north of Avocet Way on the edge of Finberry.

The report says it would be “a residential-led mixed-use development”, with a “small quantum of commercial uses”. It says construction could begin in 2029, with the site “fully operational” in 2035. ABC’s current local plan allocates the 32-acre site for up to 300 homes.

Cllr Paul Bartlett (Con), who represents Finberry and Sevington, said: “It’s a very longstanding site which has been designated for the extension of Finberry. It’s all scheduled to be developed. What I’m particularly encouraged about is the fact it shows commitment to Finberry by the Church Commissioners.”

Cllr Bartlett says the CofE purchased swathes of land – “easily thousands of acres” – around the edge of the town in the 1980s. It was referred to as Ashford Great Park and the plans the commissioners had to develop the area were significant,” he said, “If I’m being generous to the Church Commissioners, their development in the area they own has been glacial.”

The Church owns the land on which the 1,000-home Finberry estate, between Bridgefield and Bad Munstereifel Road (A2070), has been built by Crest Nicholson over the past 12 years. Residents there have previously bemoaned having to do without key local infrastructure such as shops, a community centre or a bus service.

A spokesperson for the Church Commissioners said its plans for the land north of Avocet Way will play an “important role” in helping to “meet the borough’s housing needs”.

“The Church Commissioners for England supports the delivery of new homes that enhance their surroundings and help create sustainable communities,” they added, “As the proposals develop, we will engage with local stakeholders before submitting an outline planning application. We will then identify an appropriate delivery partner to build the new homes.”

It is not yet known when the full planning application will be submitted to ABC.