The lanes proposed for closure would be made access only
One of the lanes in a Kent village which could be closed for good to vehicles apart from for access(Image: Google Street View)
Two lanes in a beautiful and historic village dubbed the “poshest” in Kent could be shut to vehicles for good. Kent County Council (KCC) is proposing the banning of traffic from routes in Ightham.
The ‘prohibition of traffic movement’ would apply for the entire lengths of Old Lane and Short Lane. Of course, those living in Old Lane and Short Lane will be allowed access.
Ightham falls in the borough of Tonbridge and Malling. The county council, the local highways authority launched a 24-day public consultation on April 17, which closes at noon on Monday, May 11.
Ightham has been saddled or bestowed with, depending on how you look at it, the “poshest” village in Kent label ever since publication of a list of Britain’s 49 poshest places by The Telegraph, based on information from Savills estate agents. This was in 2024, when the main reasons given for its ‘posh appeal’ included the National Trust medieval house Ightham Mote, the Chart Farm Produce shop, and the nearby Waitrose.
But back to closing lanes, the county council said the reasons for the scheme were for the safety of people “or other traffic” using the road, or any other road, and preventing accidents; for preventing damage to the road or to any building on or near the road; to make it easier to use the road, for any type of traffic including pedestrians; and to preserve or improve the area through which the roads run. The council has not yet made a decision on whether or not to put in the traffic restrictions.
Once all comments have been received, the council will review the scheme and decide whether to go ahead, amend the proposal or abandon it. Anyone can give their view in the consultation, however, the council asks that whether you object or support the proposal, you explain what you believe to be the impact on traffic in the local area.
If you don’t, your response won’t be valid. You must respond by noon on Monday, May 11.
You can support or object to the proposal for Ightham by filling in a form, which you’ll find by visiting this link. You can also write to: The Senior Parking and Traffic Regulation Officer, Traffic Management Team, Kent Highways and Transportation, Kent County Council, Kroner House, Traffic Management Team, Highways & Transportation, Eurogate Business Park, Ashford, TN24 8XU.
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