Chatham Waters plans not called in by Secretary of State

Developer Peel Land & Property can now proceed with its proposals for Chatham Waters, which includes plans to regenerate a brownfield site into a 19 million square feet mixed use development.

The outline planning application included proposals for new offices; an education facility; an ‘EventCity’ conference centre; a hotel; apartments and town houses; a food store, and a number of landscaped public areas. It is estimated the plans could create 3,500 jobs.

The plans were submitted following two years of discussions with Medway Council and a public consultation in September 2011, the developer said. The consultation showed that 90% of those questioned were in support of the scheme and over 95% were assured it would give the area a huge boost.

“We’re delighted the Secretary of State has approved outline plans for Chatham Waters," said James Whittaker, development director at Peel. "We have started to prepare detailed plans for the first phase and we hope to start building on the site next year."

The masterplan for the proposed development includes plans for up to 950 new homes, including town houses and apartments. Plans also include a "large parkland boulevard", which would run through the middle of the development. Commercial buildings would surround the boulevard and up to 900 metres of waterfront frontage will also be opened.

A civic square is also planned for the front of the site which is planned to be anchored by Event City, an exhibition and event space. The civic square and Event City would create a focal point on the quayside, the developer said.

“This is a major step forward for the regeneration of Medway and is a clear indication of how the area is growing and continuing to attract significant investment from developers and businesses," said Cllr Rodney Chambers, leader of Medway Council. “Not only will it create thousands of jobs for residents in the near future, but it will provide opportunities for future growth and unrivalled facilities for residents and visitors alike to enjoy and benefit from.”