Blue Bell Hill Car Park

Blue Bell Hill Car Park

A temporary accommodation scheme delivering 12 high-quality, zero-operational-carbon homes.

Commissioned by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, the scheme transforms a former commuter car park into a sustainable residential development of 12 high-quality homes using ZED PODS’ off-site modular construction system. Designed to minimise disruption while maximising long-term value, the development combines zero-operational-carbon performance with extremely low utility costs—vital for families experiencing financial stress during periods of homelessness—with rapid delivery, helping the Council meet rising demand for temporary accommodation, reduce ongoing costs, and support vulnerable households to remain close to their local communities.

Project Information

Client: Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council (TMBC)

Location: Lord Lees Grove, Chatham ME5 9PE

Building Solution: Permanent

Scope of works: Full Turnkey Service (RIBA Stage 0 – 7)

Status: In Planning - Awaiting decision

Project Team

Providing temporary accommodation for those who through no fault of their own find themselves homeless is a duty we’re committed to meeting but have to acknowledge the increasing strain it places on our budgets.

This scheme will not only provide a cost-effective supply of additional homes but also enable more homeless families from the north of our borough to remain close to the area where they have local connections.

ZED PODS have a very strong track record of innovation and delivering high quality temporary accommodation. I’m excited to have them on board and look forward to this important project moving forward and strengthening our ability to better support homeless families in our borough.

Councillor Robin Betts

Cabinet Member for Housing, Environment and Economy

Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council

Project Brief

Building energy-efficient homes and tackle homelessness

Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council appointed ZED PODS to design and deliver a new temporary accommodation scheme on the former Blue Bell Hill car park, subject to planning approval. The project responds to increasing homelessness pressures across the borough, with around 120 households requiring accommodation at any one time and limited provision in the north of the borough. The brief called for a cost-effective, sustainable housing solution that could be delivered quickly, minimise neighbourhood disruption, and provide high-quality, self-contained homes with low running costs, funded through a combination of grant funding, council resources, and developer contributions.

Full Turnkey
Solution

This project is executed through a full turnkey Design & Build process, encompassing all stages of design according to RIBA standards, planning application, offsite manufacturing, module delivery, onsite groundworks and construction and handover.

The Blue Bell Hill Car Park proposal demonstrates how constrained urban land can be repurposed to address urgent housing need in a sustainable and socially responsible way. Located on a former commuter car park within an established urban area, the site benefits from proximity to local services, transport links, and community networks, making it a suitable location for temporary accommodation that allows households to remain close to schools, employment, and support services.

The proposed development comprises 12 self-contained modular homes, each designed to provide safe, comfortable, and dignified accommodation for households experiencing homelessness. The building form and massing have been carefully considered to respond to the surrounding townscape, with height, layout, and orientation designed to minimise visual impact and protect neighbouring amenity. Clear entrances, well-defined circulation, and passive surveillance contribute to a secure and welcoming environment for residents.

Community Engagement

Working with the local community to address concerns and support a well-integrated scheme.

A public drop-in session was held on 6 November 2025 at the Bridgewood Manor Hotel, attended by approximately 25–30 local residents. The session provided an opportunity to share details of the proposed development and respond to community questions. Topics discussed included public transport access, parking provision, play space, waste management, and the intended use of the homes. The scheme benefits from good access to local bus services and nearby parks, alongside on-site amenity space. One parking space per home is proposed, with additional staff spaces available outside office hours. Residents were also reassured that the 12 two-bedroom homes will provide temporary accommodation for households experiencing homelessness.