Fielding Park in Shepway welcomes its first residents
The first residents have been welcomed to Fielding Park in Shepway, the brand-new development from Golding Homes and Skillcrown.
The first phase of the scheme, which began in 2024, is now complete – delivering 119 homes and four commercial units.
The major regeneration scheme is being delivered across three phases, with the second phase starting last summer. Once complete, the site will include 236 new energy efficient, affordable homes for local people, including a mix of flats and houses for social rent, affordable rent and shared ownership, as well as a modern shopping area and improved green spaces.
The houses enjoy private rear gardens and on-plot parking, and the modern apartments benefit from their own private terrace or balcony. The development also includes EV charging points and solar panels to support more energy-efficient living.
In a significant milestone, the first residents have now moved into their brand-new homes, with social and affordable rent homes being offered to those on Maidstone Borough Council’s housing register.
This week, a celebration event was held to mark the occasion and welcome residents to the new community, attended by the Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Brian Clark, Shepway's Councillor Maureen Cleator and Cllr Simon Wales, Maidstone Borough Council’s Cabinet member for housing.
In partnership with local school Five Acre Wood, a time capsule – including artwork made by the school children - was also sealed and buried on the site, to create a lasting memory for future generations.
Steph Goad, Chief Executive, Golding Homes, said:
“Seeing the first residents move into Fielding Park is a proud moment for everyone involved. Our purpose is to provide homes and communities where people can thrive, and this development is a fantastic example of that in action.
“Through our partnership with Skillcrown and Maidstone Borough Council, we’re delivering high-quality, energy-efficient, affordable homes while helping to create a thriving new neighbourhood for local people. We’re delighted to welcome the first residents and look forward to seeing this community grow in the years ahead.”
Carla Ashford, one of the new residents at Fielding Park, is delighted to have a home for her young family after living in temporary accommodation for several years. She said of her new home:
“When we got the keys, we couldn’t believe it. It’s something to make our own, which we’ve never had before. The homes I've had before weren't what I'd call family homes, and this is. It’s given me back a normal life and we can finally settle, put down roots and grow.”
Matt Arnold, Land & Development Director at Skillcrown, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to be celebrating this significant milestone in what has been a fantastic partnership with Golding Homes.
“Delivering 119 much-needed new homes is a great achievement, but what has made this project particularly rewarding is the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the wider community. We’re looking forward to continuing the partnership as we progress with the next phase of Fielding Park.”
Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Brian Clark, added:
“Fielding Park responds to local needs, providing quality, affordable homes and vibrant green spaces for families in this area.
“Outdated housing has been transformed into modern, stylish and energy efficient homes that will improve the lives of residents for many years to come and set a benchmark for sustainable regeneration in our borough. I welcome this development very much.”