We've seen these Utopias before

AS THE debate about the proposed science park at Woodstock continues, it may be instructive to look at a similar grand idea that took place in the not-too-distant past.

Some 20 or so years ago, the Second World War airfield at West Malling came up for sale, an oustandingly beautiful rural area. In order to retain control
over any future development of die site, Kent County Council bought it. After much debate about this significant investment, it was agreed the authority would seek a partner to proceed with the exploitation of its valuable asset.

Adverts were placed internationally for experienced companies to tender for a licence to design and develop the site. The development brief was for the site to be of a high-tech nature, with a balance of business and countryside in sympathy with the nearby West Mailing village.

The successful company was American and named Rouse. Its campaign started with a fanfare: exhibitions, adverts and glossy brochures promoting its position close to a major motorway - the usual hype.

In the meantime, a number of companies who were already operating on the site were given notice to quit. They were told to go because their mode of working did not fit with the image that was being marketed. This did little to help the local economy.

One national company that had been on the airfield for a good number of years flew in aircraft direct from the factory and fitted them out to the owner's specifications. They had to quit and had always been considered a high-tech business. One business was allowed to stay - Kent County Council's supplies warehouse!

During the next few years, extensive road development took place on the site, together with some office building. As a sop to the villagers, who had shown little enthusiasm for the development, a bypass was built, connecting to the M20. Some of the buildings were occupied, but others remained empty and progress remained painfully slow.

By the early 90s, it became clear that the high-tech park was not going to happen. Occupation was sluggish at best and opportunities for a return on investment were fast disappearing.

Finally, Rouse was forced to apply for variation to its development brief and planning permission. With the excuse of high interest rates and a downturn in the economy, the plan was quietly put to sleep. But what are we to do with this huge area of land in the beautiful countryside?

Kings Hill now has a dormitory twon with a school,supermarket, golf course and the largest housing development in west Kent.

Those who failed to join the rush to the new Kings Hill utopia and those who dared to ask "where is the hard evidence?" were treated just like the ones who are saying today in Sittingbourne: "Hang on a minute, let's have a little less hot air and a lot more cool and calm scrutiny, on its own merits. "

We all know the saying: "If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is."

D Stuart,
Capel Road,
Sittingbourne