The site includes integrated 286 solar PV panels and other sustainable building measures.

There was a late intervention from the Tonbridge Bicycle Users Group, which was the catalyst for a determined effort by planning officer Louise Rowlands to negotiate with the developer so that a three-metre band on the northern and eastern perimeter would be made available for a future cycleway should proposals be brought forward at a later date.

Of concern was the attempt to hijack proceedings by Cllrs Boughton and Botten, who attempted to propose a vote to approve before several Councillors had their opportunity to speak. We live in a democracy and all voices should be heard before a decision is finally made.

Ultimately, this is a good decision. A brownfield site has been brought a step closer to being back in use to provide employment. Every acre used of this type of land means another acre of Green Belt might be saved.

We can see the huge potential for residential use on other brownfield sites too, notably at Aylesford Newsprint, and we will be making that point when the Local Plan Hearings begin later this year. There is no excuse for placing 5,000 homes on our Green Belt instead.