Herne Bay Witnesses Major Development Transformation in 2025

Introduction: A Coastal Town in Transformation

Herne Bay, the charming seaside town on Kent’s north-east coast, is experiencing a remarkable period of growth and regeneration in 2025. With multiple housing developments underway and significant infrastructure projects nearing completion, this historic coastal community is positioning itself as an increasingly attractive destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike. The town’s transformation reflects broader trends in coastal living whilst maintaining its traditional seaside character.

Major Retirement Village Nears Completion

A £21 million retirement village on the site of a derelict Christian holiday camp is close to completion, with Herne Bay Gardens including 50 one- and two-bedroom bungalows for older residents, along with a new 67-bedroom care home run by Dunham Care. Construction is now in its final stages, with the first residents expected to move in within weeks. The land was once home to the Herne Bay Court Christian Centre – which closed in 2008 and became a magnet for vandals and trespassers, with redevelopment plans approved in 2022 after years of uncertainty over its future.

Extensive Housing Developments Across the Town

Several major housing projects are currently progressing throughout Herne Bay. The 16-home scheme, proposed for land off Bullockstone Road, Herne Common, near Herne Bay, has now been approved by Canterbury City Council. Additionally, there are fears plans for 250 homes will threaten valued green spaces, strain local infrastructure and erode an area’s “village identity”, highlighting the tension between development needs and community concerns.

Multiple developers are active in the area, including Bellway Homes at Oxenden Park, Vistry Kent at Greenwood Gardens, and Redrow at Woodcote Park, offering a range of properties from apartments to family homes. These developments are designed with modern energy efficiency standards, including air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points.

Conclusion: Balancing Growth with Community Character

Herne Bay’s development surge in 2025 signals confidence in the town’s future as a desirable coastal location. The completion of the retirement village represents a particularly significant achievement, transforming a derelict eyesore into a valuable community asset. However, the scale of housing development also raises important questions about infrastructure capacity, green space preservation, and maintaining the town’s distinctive character. For prospective residents, Herne Bay offers excellent transport links to London, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant town centre, making it an increasingly compelling choice for those seeking coastal living within reach of the capital. The coming months will be crucial in determining how successfully the town manages this period of rapid change.