Kent County Council plans to build on Church St Playing Fields without public consultation.

The Friends of Church St. Fields have applied for Village Green status to protect it as an open green space. In November 2025 they announced a public hearing scheduled for late February 2026. To secure our own legal counsel we need to raise another £6k on top of the £4k raised. Please help us where you can.

Kent County Council have objected to our application and plan to use tax payer’s money to fight this legally. Will you donate to our crowdfunding campaign to cover our legal fees?

The background

For decades Church St Fields has been a vital recreation destination for local residents. Generations of families have used the space for social, sporting and leisure activities.

As Tankerton’s only green space, Church St Field provides a lifeline to residents who do not have a garden or car and who cannot walk far. It plays a vital role in supporting the physical and mental health of the community.

As the ‘landowner’ KCC plan to take the entire field for development, regardless of need, leaving no green open space for the community within walking distance for most.

Building on the field contradicts Canterbury Council's Local Plan which lists the site as 'protected green space' (as it has been for 20+ years). Canterbury City Council have expressed a desire to take on the fields to increase biodiversity and improve its sport and recreational facilities.

Village Green Status

Securing Village Green status for Church St. Fields would provide permanent protection from development. Legal advice suggests we have a very strong case.

Kent County Council have made the only objection to our Village Green application and we now need legal support to support our case.

What can you do?

Donate to our legal fund

Donate to our appeal for essential legal funds to secure Village Green status for Church St Playing Fields to protect it forever. All monies donated will go directly to legal fees required to preserve this precious community resource forever. Any remaining money will go to improve accessibility, add facilities and improve biodiversity - the original aim of the group when formed in 2020.