On Monday 15 September 2025, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Patron of English Rural, visited the hamlet of Bough Beech near Sevenoaks to officially open the Millbrook affordable housing development – an initiative addressing the growing need for rural housing in Kent.
The £2.44 million scheme, delivered in partnership with Sevenoaks District Council and Chiddingstone Parish Council, consists of eight high-quality homes for affordable rent. Built in traditional Kentish style using red brick and tile, the development includes maisonettes and semi-detached houses constructed with timber frames and equipped with energy-efficient technologies such as air source heat pumps and solar PV panels.
During the visit, Her Royal Highness toured the homes, met residents and stakeholders, and learned how the development supports local families and strengthens the community. All homes were allocated to households with strong local connections, following a housing needs survey and support from the parish council.
To commemorate the occasion, The Princess Royal unveiled a plaque and received a posy from two-year-old Hazel Joyce.
The visit highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between housing associations, local councils, and communities in delivering sustainable rural housing. The Millbrook development stands as a model for future projects that aim to preserve the vitality of Kent’s villages while meeting the needs of local people.
Photo credit – Matt Pereira Photography
