The former school has not been used for education since 2016, when it was closed by the Department for Education after representations from the Oasis Trust. KCC retained the land for nine years to ensure any potential future need was fully explored. Following extensive review work, the Council formally declared the site surplus in April 2025, with a decision to dispose of it confirmed in September 2025.
A full assessment completed in 2025 shows that all local education needs can be met through existing and planned provision. This includes:
- A new special school approved for the former Birchwood Primary site in Swanley.
- Sufficient secondary capacity across the Dartford and Swanley planning area, supported by the expansion of Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy and the Alkerden all‑through school.
- The rebuilt Orchards Academy, which can add an additional form of entry if needed.
- A designed‑in option for future sixth‑form provision at Orchards Academy, providing a cost‑effective way to expand capacity if required.
KCC’s assessment has also taken account of the potential impact of new housing being considered in Sevenoaks District Council’s early‑stage Local Plan, which will not be finalised until 2027. While some of these proposals may increase demand for school places, the former Hextable site would still not be suitable for a modern secondary school. Its location on the edge of the village, limited public transport links and the level of traffic a large school would generate make it the wrong site for future provision.
If additional places are required, as the Local Plan develops, KCC will work to secure land in a more appropriate and accessible location within the District
KCC has also considered national policy and funding. The Government has recently stopped a number of mainstream free school projects, citing falling birth rates and reduced future demand for secondary places. This reinforces the Council’s position that maintaining the Hextable site for possible future school use is neither necessary nor financially justified.
In addition, retaining the site incurs significant taxpayer-funded holding costs amounting to several hundred thousand pounds each year. Disposing of the land will release capital to support KCC’s frontline service priorities.
Beverley Fordham, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “Our responsibility is to plan for the long‑term needs of local families, and the evidence gives me complete confidence that the former Hextable School site is not required for future education provision.
“We have examined every scenario – including potential future housing – and the picture is consistent. Local schools already have the capacity and flexibility needed, and we have clear, cost‑effective options built into the system for both secondary and sixth‑form places.
“The Hextable site simply doesn’t meet the criteria for modern secondary provision and keeping it in reserve would not serve local families well. This decision is rooted in strong evidence, responsible planning and good stewardship of public resources.”
As part of its plans, KCC has confirmed:
- The Howard Venue will remain protected and will not be included in any sale.
- The Avenue of Limes will continue to be safeguarded, with covenants protecting its heritage and public access.
- The wider site will be marketed as one lot, though interest in individual elements such as the playing fields will be welcomed.
