A MULTI-FAITH organisation has expressed fears a mini-town being built at Ebbsfleet Valley will exclude ethnic minorities.

The huge development near Swanscombe will provide up to 10,000 new homes, but there are concerns a lack of churches will discourage ethnic minorities from moving to the area.

At an open day at the site on Friday held by developer Land Securities, members of the Thames Gateway Women's Multi-Faith Forum voiced their concerns.

Gravesend resident Dr Surindar Singh, 75, who spoke on behalf of the Multi-Faith Forum, said: "The plans at the moment do not give possibilities for integration. The Government should make sure certain areas of the new community have a variety of people, which means churches of different faiths."

Development director of the project Adam Cunnington, 38, welcomed the feedback and invited further suggestions.

A workshop for proposing ideas is being held today.

Mr Cunnington said: "Inclusivity and integration with the existing community is fundamental to the success of the regeneration of the area.

"We want people to take part in helping to shape the plans for Ebbsfleet Valley."

Dr Singh is also concerned the expensive property market would allow only the wealthy to buy a home at Ebbsfleet Valley, creating an elitist community.

He said: "We are concerned this development will be for the wealthy and Swanscombe will be excluded."

Houses in the Springhead Park area of the development will be ready from September this year, and the public have been able to make bids on homes since yesterday.

The Ebbsfleet Valley development has received outline planning permission and covers more than 1,000 acres.

The open day was attended by 278 visitors, who saw plans for the development which included new schools, health facilities and religious buildings.

Mr Cunnington's intention is to create the infrastructure for a self-sufficient community.

He said: "We want to create a dynamic and thriving community with homes and jobs and plenty for people to do."