Shorncliffe Heights Residents Challenge BDTA Charges in Meeting with MP and Taylor Wimpey

Shorncliffe Heights residents met on 6 November with Tony Vaughan KC MP and senior representatives from Taylor Wimpey to address ongoing concerns about charges for the Back Door Training Area (BDTA), transparency at the point of sale, and the performance of FirstPort, the estate’s managing agent.

Residents reported that despite Taylor Wimpey stating in a letter dated 30 September that all BDTA charges issued by FirstPort had been refunded, no such refunds have been received. FirstPort has instead been collecting what appears to be contingency funding from households, with inconsistent and unexplained costs.

Taylor Wimpey confirmed during the meeting that they have never invoiced FirstPort for BDTA maintenance and that any money collected for the BDTA should have been ring-fenced and refunded annually if unused. The developer reiterated that all past BDTA charges should be returned to residents. Future BDTA costs will transition to a standard service-charge model from 2026, once maintenance responsibilities shift fully to the White Cliffs Countryside Partnership.

Residents also questioned why Taylor Wimpey chose FirstPort for long-term management rather than establishing an independent trust, as recommended in 2015 planning documents. Taylor Wimpey clarified that although FirstPort currently collects BDTA funds, the actual maintenance contract is with WCCP, and long-term arrangements from 2032 will be determined by FirstPort.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on transparency for homebuyers. Multiple residents said their sales packs contained no mention of BDTA liabilities, despite Taylor Wimpey stating that this information is included in current purchaser documentation. Some who bought recently said they were similarly unaware of the long-term financial commitment.

Concerns also continued regarding FirstPort’s overall performance. Tony Vaughan MP referenced ongoing national criticism of the company and noted similar issues at other developments, including FirstPort’s removal from the Faversham Lakes estate following complaints about rising fees and poor service.

Taylor Wimpey stressed that they have no power to replace FirstPort, as the contract is directly between residents and the managing agent. However, they pointed to a clause in the TP1 documents allowing residents to change managing agent once the development is fully sold and a formal residents’ association is established. Residents were encouraged to form such an association to gain greater control and stronger oversight of estate management and budgeting.

Taylor Wimpey confirmed they will attend the next FirstPort site meeting on 12 February 2026 to support further discussions. Budget information for future BDTA costs will be shared with residents once available.