Medway Local Plan (Regulation 19, 2025)

Ends on 11 August 2025 (11 days remaining)

5. Built Environment

5.1 Introduction

5.1.1 The Council's vision is for Medway to be a location of quality development and correspondingly high-quality environments. This is key to fostering happier, healthier residents who are proud of their homes, towns and communities where they live. The Council will also seek to create a destination of choice to support businesses and employment creation. Comment

5.1.2 New development should respect the area's heritage, reflecting distinctiveness across Medway, and conserving and enhancing valued aspects of the historic environment. Given the quality and diversity of Medway's heritage and the scale of development needed over the plan period, careful attention will be given to managing the historic environment and planning for high quality design. Comment

5.2 High quality design

5.2.1 New development should provide high quality homes, employment and other activities in support of sustainable development for the long term. High quality design and attractive environments are key components of good planning; encouraging investment and economic development in an area, supporting wellbeing and social inclusion while helping to reinforce civic pride and community cohesion, along with providing and protecting an enduring built environment which people are proud of. Good design is therefore essential in achieving sustainable development and the objectives of this Plan. Comment

5.2.2 Local Authorities are encouraged to prepare design codes to deliver quality and attractive environments. Medway Council has recently adopted a Chatham Design Code and the Star Hill to Sun Pier Development Framework. These two guidance documents set out detailed considerations without being overly prescriptive recognising the special characteristics of these localities and what they can offer in creating vibrancy and quality environments. Adherence to this guidance is vital for delivering quality environments in a holistic way rather than piecemeal developments that do not take account of visioning for the wider area. Comment

5.2.3 The attractiveness of the Medway area (its public realm, appearance and offer) is fundamental in supporting and nurturing a stronger local economy, which can be revealed through delivery of quality design. The Council will also seek to achieve its aims for the wellbeing of Medway and its residents as a Dementia Friendly Community through consideration of accessible design principles in the public realm and all new developments. Comment

5.2.4 The scale and mix of growth proposed in the new Local Plan offers great opportunities to shape Medway's future success through excellent design that invests in infrastructure, streets, landscape, architecture and public realm and other community assets of place making, benefitting established places and creating attractive new development. The regeneration areas provide the basis for new revitalised quarters and continuation of regeneration and revitalisation of our urban waterfront areas. Strategic allocations and sites in suburban and rural Medway will be required to realise the plan's ambitions for quality, attractive, sustainable development that respects and corresponds with the character of the surrounding landscapes and distinct identities of our communities. Comment

5.2.5 Whilst the style of buildings and their adaptability are important considerations, setting is crucial, as is the fabric and landscapes to which buildings contribute. The creation of high quality, innovative and context appropriate design developments that are well integrated with their surroundings is a key aim of this Local Plan. Comment

5.2.6 Medway has a distinct local character that is derived from its rich historic environment, fabric and landscapes among other attributes. This local character creates a unique sense of place that new development should strive to reveal, protect, enhance, interpret and make relevant. In considering the design of new development, regard should be given to heritage assets, their settings, the wider historic environment and appropriate use of local vernacular materials & motifs, together with landscape elements, structure planting, micro-climate and use of public realm. Comment

5.2.7 The natural environment and well-designed open spaces together with a high-quality public realm and pedestrian-focussed streets and spaces play an integral role in creating a successful place. The role of the existing topography and other natural assets, landscape, and features worthy of retention and furthering within the site should be fully considered from the outset of the design process with professional experts brought on board early within design teams, to inform initial / baseline work to help drive the design and pre-application dialogue process. Developers are encouraged to refer to the Nature Friendly Design – the Essential Checklist document. The Council would expect compliance with the principles of nationally recognised standards, so far as practicable, across all proposed new developments. Comment

Policy T1: High Quality Design and Amenity Comment

Development in Medway will be of high-quality design that makes a positive contribution and responds appropriately to the character and appearance of its surroundings.

All proposals for development will be required to satisfy the following criteria, as applicable to the type of development proposed, and consideration of the criteria should be demonstrated in supporting statements and reports submitted with an application. It is expected that any departure from this policy, including its individual criterion, must be robustly justified in information submitted in support of the application:

Design, character and site context

  • High quality place making, distinctiveness and character through the scale and form of development that responds positively and respectfully to its surrounding context and sensitively corresponds with key characteristics and interpretations of Medway.
  • Demonstrates, through compliance with relevant design guides and codes, how it relates to and/or reinforces local distinctiveness and character through the use of appropriate morphologies, streetscapes, public realm, landscapes, architecture and detail. Details should include the consideration of high-quality materials, local vernacular materials where appropriate; building, public realm and landscape detailing.
  • Interpret appropriately the prevailing pattern of plot size and layout relating to the surrounding context position within proposed fabric / edge conditions.
  • Be appropriate in terms of mass, bulk, height and roofscapes in relation to the surrounding context and views into and out from the site.
  • Shall be compliant with the building heights / views policies, Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment / Townscape and Visual impact assessments methodologies and best practice for neutral analysis of the impacted context as a baseline for understanding the site.
  • Achieves a transition from urban to rural for edge of settlement sites that reinforces distinctiveness and respects appropriate scale, has regard to field patterns and existing landscape features, achieves separation to avoid coalescence, focusses distribution of higher densities towards centres / inner edges.
  • Demonstrates opportunities to align with Medway Council's corporate strategies including child friendly environments, climate emergency, health and wellbeing, and culture.
  • Makes efficient use of land and is guided by a clear set of design principles that comply with the National Model Design Code / National Design Guide ten characteristics of well-designed places in conceptual work and pre-app engagement.
  • The Council would expect compliance with the principles of nationally recognised standards, so far as practicable, across all proposed new developments

Water/flooding

  • Existing surface water flow routes and drainage features within the site should be identified and preserved wherever these contribute to sustainable drainage and/or works with nature, e.g. ditches, seasonally dry watercourses or historic ponds.

Accessibility

  • There is good connectivity and permeability that supports existing and new Public Rights of Ways, active travel and provides a clear user hierarchy for pedestrians, cycles, public transport before cars, ensuring streets and spaces within new developments are not overly car dominated particularly in residential developments.

Landscape, trees and amenity

  • Considers nature from the outset and works with the topography of the site and the inventive incorporation / use / interpretation of existing natural features.
  • Retains existing trees and landscape features and incorporates new high quality landscaping and areas of public realm that make use of / or retain features of relevance / importance.
  • Demonstrate integration of SUDs within landscape as areas of shallow sided dual use wherever possible and clear demonstration of linkages /contribution toward green infrastructure assets and networks.
  • It establishes tree-lined streets, new trees and other landscape features such as hedges that collectively help create an attractive, welcoming, and healthy place to live, work and visit and contributes toward eco-system benefits in support of climate change and sustainability.

Amenity and inclusivity

Provides a suitable level of amenity for future occupiers including compliance with the National Space Standards and respects the amenity of neighbouring occupiers, and uses, and does not result in significant harm in relation to light levels, overshadowing, overlooking, loss of privacy, visual intrusion, vibration, noise and fumes, and appropriately designed car parking.

  • Establishes healthy communities and well-balanced neighbourhoods with the use of shared spaces that encourage social interaction and inclusive environments that create a sense of belonging.
  • Includes the integration of public art & play where possible.
  • Creates a safe and secure environment with adequate security measures to deter crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour.

Utilities

  • Takes a comprehensive and co-ordinated approach to development including respecting existing site constraints and utilities situated within sites
  • Provides for discreet provision of utilities with easy access for maintenance purposes.

5.2.8 The NPPF places great emphasis on place making, and quality design. This is reinforced by the aims and ambition of Medway Council. National planning policy requires good design as a key aspect of sustainable development. It directs local planning authorities to develop robust and comprehensive policies that set out the quality of development that will be expected for the area. Comment

5.2.9 Additional design guidance such as site-specific development briefs, masterplans, Building Height / View Policies, supplementary planning documents, National Model Design Codes, National Design Guide, Conservation Area Appraisals, Conservation Area Design Guides, development Frameworks, the Kent Downs National Landscape Management Plan and supporting guidance should be consulted as part of the design process where appropriate. Comment

5.2.10 Recent times have highlighted the need to create healthy places where people can spend considerable time living and working within their home but also enjoy surrounding streets and open spaces for the benefit of their own physical and mental health. Comment

5.2.11 Much of Medway has a concentrated built-up character in contrast to the rural Hoo Peninsula and Medway Valley, with varied character in between. A generic policy approach will not suffice as it will need to factor in the local context and dynamics. A sensitive approach is needed in creating sustainable and desirable communities and homes that respond to residents' needs across the different character areas and contexts. Comment

5.2.12 Medway's built-up areas have limited green spaces, particularly in some locations, which are desirable for creating healthy and desirable places to live and work. Proposals will need to ensure these aspects are carefully factored in, in addressing Medway's needs. Comment

5.3 Housing design

5.3.1 Achieving adequate residential standards remains a key planning objective for the Council, especially given the scale of growth envisaged for Medway. It is important that new development is designed to ensure long-term social and economic sustainability, continuing the quest for lifetime homes and to reduce future obsolescence in the face of changing economic, demographic and social trends. Comment

5.3.2 The Impact Statement carried out with regard to the introduction of the Medway Housing Design Standards (MHDS) in 2011 provided evidence of the need for external space standards reflective of Medway's local context, which are in addition to the National Described Space Standards (NDSS). Comment

5.3.3 Medway Council will continue to expect that the internal floor areas of dwellings submitted for planning permission are adequate, and will use the Nationally Described Space Standard as guidance on this matter, supporting existing policy relating to amenity. Comment

5.3.4 Following consultation, the MHDS, sets out similar requirements to the National Standards. This work included an extensive 'impact assessment' that demonstrated that the MHDS was not unduly onerous and that it would not have an undue impact on the quantum of development that could be achieved in Medway. Comment

5.3.5 In addition the MHDS has specific standards on the following topics, which developers should continue to adhere to: Comment

  • shared outdoor amenity space;
  • shared access and circulation;
  • cycle storage, refuse and recycling;
  • management – landscape / public realm Landscape Management Plans (LMP) are crucial to sustaining residential placemaking over time;
  • visual privacy and private outdoor space; and
  • environmental comfort.

5.3.6 Housing choice, flexibility and attractiveness are key considerations for people wishing to live in the area. The creation of functional spaces and the adaptability of a home will provide a better opportunity to secure long term occupation, i.e. lifelong homes. In a changing environment with greater emphasis on climate change and supporting people to be able to carry out their day-to-day activities, the adaptability of a dwelling is also important. Comment

5.3.7 Special consideration will be needed in areas of historic value such as the area between Star Hill to Sun Pier. Guidance in the Star Hill to Sun Pier Development Framework 2024 & Conservation Area Appraisal will be a material consideration and offers an overarching framework to guide development in this sensitive and complex area. Further design guidance for the centre of Chatham is provided in the Chatham Design Code 2024. Comment

Policy DM5: Housing Design Comment

New housing developments must provide good, healthy living conditions for future occupants with high quality, robust, adaptable housing, inclusive and functional spaces that respond to changing resident needs throughout their lives and support the undertaking of necessary day to day activities.

All new accommodation must, in addition to the design and amenity policy above (T1):

  • As a minimum meet the relevant nationally described internal space standard for each individual unit.
  • As a minimum meet the Medway Housing Design Standards for external spaces including shared outdoor amenity space, shared access and circulation, cycle storage, refuse and recycling, management, visual privacy and private outdoor space, environmental comfort.
  • Incorporate dementia friendly standards where appropriate.
  • As a minimum requirement, the provision of sufficient natural light must be met to satisfy healthy living standards:
    • Single aspect facing homes shall be avoided where possible.
    • Demonstrate use of up-to-date British Standards methodologies.
  • Provide a convenient and efficient layout, including sufficient circulation space and avoiding awkward or impractically shaped rooms, unless there is justification for doing so on the basis of significant design quality gain.
  • Demonstrate sufficient space for storage and clothes drying.
  • Be informed by a contextual analysis of key character traits that contribute to local distinctiveness. Demonstrate well-defined character areas which individually and collectively create a strong sense of place and as a whole presents development that is clearly differentiated from other places across Medway.
  • Provide for recycling and refuse storage to maximise recycling but without a detrimental impact to the street scene or character of an area.
  • Be flexible towards future adaptation in response to changing life needs.

5.3.8 The NPPF emphasises the importance of good design and achieving well designed places to create high quality sustainable buildings. This recognises that the quality of housing that has been delivered through the planning process over the last 50 years has not generally been of the highest or sufficient quality (both externally and internally) and has not created the special places that most people aspire to live in. There is also the need to create homes that are future proofed to meet sustainability challenges but are also adaptable to the changing needs of the occupiers. Comment

5.3.9 Through the introduction of the Nationally Described Space Standard (2015) which lays down minimum internal floor areas for dwellings, the Government has established that residential amenity and adequate space within homes is a planning concern.[42] It is important that space standards in homes are sufficient for people's needs. Comment

5.3.10 Mental health is also a big priority. Ensuring that people have the minimum requirements for a healthier life are fundamental and this includes simple requirements such as access to sufficient daylight, access to greenery, space for storage and drying clothes. The quality of the home and the surrounding external space is vital in ensure places are healthier for people both for their mental and physical health. Comment

5.3.11 Ensuring self-sufficiency through design as a sustainability considerations assist in creating a better environment, which thus in turn supports healthy minds and independent individuals that can be economically active. Comment

5.4 Sustainable design and construction

5.4.1 Sustainability is at the heart of planning and with the impacts of climate change being more widely recognised, the approach to development needs to be carefully considered at all stages. Planning can make a fundamental difference in influencing development from the infancy of a plan built-in with principles of sustainability and due regard to climate change and its contributing factors. Consideration of these factors in the built environment occurs during the design process. Wherever possible, new developments should incorporate mitigating measures as part of their design, construction and occupation and management, resulting in as minimal impact on the environment as possible. Comment

5.4.2 The environment is incapable of keeping up with the current consumption patterns of natural resources, which has an impact from large scale business and economies to local High Street businesses and down to each individual person. Actions to introduce the circular economy uses (making better use of recycled materials or locally sourced materials) will contribute to the collective aim of sustainability and resource maintenance/preservation. Comment

5.4.3 New homes currently must meet a national Building Regulations standard for water efficiency of 125 litres/person/day with planning authorities having the option to reduce this to 110 litres. New residential development in Medway must meet current buildings regulations. Comment

5.4.4 The BREEAM provides a nationally recognised standard for the sustainable design of non-residential development. Where relevant (not all non-residential schemes will be able to meet the BREEAM targets) non-residential development should meet a 'Very Good' BREEAM as a minimum standard in terms of both energy efficiency and water efficiency. Comment

5.4.5 Should the BREEAM standards be replaced, or any other national standards increased, the equivalent standards of the replacement scheme should be used. The voluntary use of sustainability assessment tools for residential development will also be expected for all planning applications. Comment

5.4.6 Buildings are significant contributors to carbon emissions, so it is essential to ensure that all developments are contributing to reducing the impact of climate change and to meeting carbon net zero emissions. Maintaining, repairing, reusing and adapting existing buildings to enable their continued use is one of the most effective ways to reduce carbon emissions and unnecessary waste. The whole life cycle of a building should be considered. When preparing proposals that incorporate heritage assets, applicants are expected to consider the latest Historic England (or successor body) advice such as that contained in the Climate Change and Historic Building Adaptation Historic England Advice Note.[43] Comment

5.4.7 Medway Council's guidance through the Chatham Design Code 2024 and Star Hill to Sun Pier Development Framework 2024 will also inform development proposals in those specific areas where relevant. Comment

Policy DM6: Sustainable Design and Construction Comment

All new forms of development should aim for high standards of sustainable design and construction.

Proposals for all types of development whether new or conversion must as a minimum demonstrate:

  • Where relevant, how proposals adhere to Building for a Healthy Life.
  • use of sustainability criteria, such as Building with Nature Standards which define "what good looks like" covering the themes of wellbeing, water and wildlife and other references.
  • the use of natural features such as green walls/roofs/hedges/roof top gardens etc. to enhance sustainability and Biodiversity Net Gain and contribute to the health and wellbeing of residents.
  • design principles founded on locally sourced and/or recycled materials where possible.
  • that new dwellings built to ensure that wholesome water consumption is not greater than 110 litres/person/day.
  • details of how the proposal is seeking to address the climate emergency with an aim to achieve or aspire to net zero carbon with due regard to Medway's current Climate Action Plan and Medway Council Corporate Strategies. The whole life cycle of a building should be considered. Where possible proposals for conversion or reuse of buildings will be favoured.
  • that the inclusion within any planning application, details how the proposals will address matters of sustainability through the design, construction and operation phases via design considerations and submission of a construction management plan.
  • creation of a safe environment including but not limited to during the operational phase of the development but also ensures full remediation of brownfield sites to appropriate standards for re-use.

Where appropriate and technically and financially viable, any submission must demonstrate how it will meet a very good BREEAM standard for water and energy for non-residential development proposals.

5.4.8 NPPF has achieving sustainable development as a central theme running throughout and places an emphasis on place making, sustainable design and sustainability. There are specific sections on achieving well designed places, promoting sustainable transport and meeting the challenge of climate change. There is an increased emphasis on thinking locally and managing local impacts. The Policy also supports the One Medway Council Plan and Climate Change Action Plan. Comment

5.4.9 The South East region incorporates many environmentally sensitive areas and is classified as an area of 'serious water stress'. The increasing impacts of climate change expected over time mean we need to significantly reduce our water use. Comment

5.5 Shopfront design and security

5.5.1 Medway has many historic buildings that are now in retail or commercial use. Often shopfronts have been inserted into the building to facilitate a retail or commercial use or were included as part of its original design. Comment

5.5.2 The design of shopfronts has evolved over time, but the basics of their form has remained the same. Across Medway there are good surviving examples of shopfronts displaying various architectural styles and from different periods. Comment

5.5.3 Shopfronts have an important role in enhancing the vibrancy and vitality of a place and add to the overall street scene. They also can contribute to the significance and character of heritage assets. Comment

5.5.4 There is a presumption for the retention of historic shopfronts where they exist. Comment

5.5.5 Development proposals for a new shopfront should ensure that they sensitively integrate into the building and the street scene through the use of high-quality materials, an appropriate design, and respecting the proportions of the building. Comment

5.5.6 For any proposals for shopfronts, regard should be given to relevant adopted Design Guidance. Comment

5.5.7 Standard corporate designs for signage and advertising may need to be adapted in order to respect the character and appearance of the area, particularly on historic buildings or in Conservation Areas. Comment

5.5.8 For works impacting heritage assets, policy S8: Historic Environment and DM9: Heritage Assets will also apply. Comment

Policy DM7: Shopfront Design and Security Comment

Proposals which would result in the loss of shop fronts of traditional design or materials, and which positively contribute to the character and appearance of an area, will not be permitted.

Proposals for new commercial or retail frontages should:

  • Respect the character, scale, and appearance of the building.
  • Incorporate fascias and any additional features which are in proportion to the elevations of the existing building, and which avoid obscuring any existing architectural details.
  • Complement the positive or historic character of the surrounding area and contribute to the vibrancy and safety of the street.
  • Ensure that any security grilles or shutters demonstrated to be necessary, are designed to be an integral feature of the frontage and maintain a shop window display.
  • External roller shutters will rarely be considered acceptable due to their detrimental impact on the street scene and perceptions of safety.
  • Demonstrate compliance with adopted guidance and design codes where applicable.

Where illumination is required, it should be restrained, unobtrusively sited, energy efficient and in context with the building and the wider area.

5.5.9 Insensitively designed shopfronts can detract from the street scene and adversely impact the local distinctiveness and character of an area. This can arise through such elements as inappropriate materials, poorly sized signage (often too large), lighting, security measures (such as roller shutters) poorly replicated historic details, or where the shopfront does not conform to the proportions of the building. Comment

5.5.10 To help provide clarity on shopfront design, signage, and security, a range of design guidance notes have been published by the Council: Comment

  • Guide to Good Practice in Shopfront Design.
  • Shopfront Advertising Guide.
  • Shopfront Security Design Guidance.[44],[45],[46]

Design codes (including Chatham Design Code 2024 and Neighbourhood Plan Design Codes) Comment

5.5.11 External roller shutters will rarely be considered acceptable due to their detrimental impact on the street scene. There may be exceptional circumstances for their use however and justification would need to be clearly set out in a development proposal and their design integrated into the building, as described in the adopted Shopfront Security Design Guidance. Comment

5.6 Advertisements

5.6.1 Advertisements and signs need to be visible to attract attention or convey information. If they are insensitively designed in relation to their context or position, they can appear overly dominant and incongruous, adversely impacting the street scene. Comment

5.6.2 Applications for advertisements and signage should be designed with reference to the impact on amenity and public safety, within the context of the character of an area, taking account of any historic, architectural, or other features of relevance. Comment

5.6.3 Applications for illuminated advertisements and signage should demonstrate that the use of lighting is restrained, unobtrusively sited, and in context with the building and the wider area. The Council refers to the Institution of Lighting Professionals Guidance Note GN01 for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light. Comment

5.6.4 Advertisements and signage on heritage assets should be kept to a minimum to help preserve or enhance the character and significance of the asset. Policies S8: Historic Environment, DM4: Noise and Light Pollution and DM9: Heritage Assets will also apply. Comment

Policy DM8: Advertisements Comment

Proposals for the display of advertisements and fascia signs will be permitted unless:

  • their scale, size, design, materials, or illumination would be detrimental to the character and appearance of the land or buildings on which they are to be displayed or of the surrounding area; or
  • they result in visual clutter or are excessive in size or number; or
  • their siting on a building extends above ground floor fascia level and fails to respect architectural features or the original divisions of the property; or
  • the sign constitutes a road safety hazard which would be likely to distract, confuse or obstruct the vision of road users.

For heritage assets advertisements will not be permitted if their design, materials, size, colour, or siting adversely impacts the significance of the heritage asset or its setting.

Proposals will be supported where materials used are sustainable and lighting is energy efficient.

5.6.5 The policy has been drafted to prevent signage from adversely impacting the street scene, particularly in conservation areas or other areas with sensitivities. Comment

5.6.6 The display of advertisements is subject to a separate consent process within the planning system. This is principally set out in the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007 (as amended). There are three categories of advertisement consent set out in the Regulations: Comment

  • Those permitted without requiring either deemed or express consent from the local planning authority;
  • Those that have deemed consent; and
  • Those that require the express consent of the local planning authority.

5.6.7 Policy DM8 will only apply to those applications requiring consent. Comment

5.7 Historic environment

5.7.1 The historic environment is an irreplaceable resource that lies at the heart of the character of Medway, contributing to its local distinctiveness and helping to articulate the unique sense of place. It also contributes positively to wider Council objectives, such as tourism, education, leisure, regeneration, economic development, planning and urban design, sustainability, and health and wellbeing. The creation of a clear and positive strategy for the historic environment will help support the Council's commitment for the continued conservation and enhancement, and enjoyment of Medway's rich heritage. Comment

5.7.2 To appropriately integrate heritage into planning policy and decision making, policies relating to the historic environment should be read in conjunction with other policies within the Local Plan, such as those relating to heritage assets, design, landscape, trees, and transport, along with any relevant SPDs and published Guidance. Comment

Policy S8: Historic Environment Comment

To ensure the continued contribution that the historic environment brings to Medway, the Council remains committed to the conservation, enhancement and enjoyment of the historic environment; including the heritage assets and their distinctiveness and characteristics. This will be achieved through:

  • Delivering on the heritage objectives set out in the Medway Heritage Strategy and national planning policy guidance.
  • Ensuring development preserves or enhances the significance of designated and non-designated heritage assets and their settings.
  • Ensuring that all new development positively contributes to local distinctiveness and character.
  • Encouraging development that makes sensitive reuse of heritage assets consistent with their conservation, particularly where they are vacant or redundant, and especially if they are considered to be 'at risk' on national and local registers.
  • Working positively with stakeholders and other partners on heritage initiatives, including bids for funding.
  • Promoting the enjoyment, access and interpretation of heritage assets that deliver wider community educational, health and well-being benefits.

5.7.3 The NPPF requires a positive strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment which this policy, supported by the draft Medway Heritage Strategy, conservation area appraisals and management plans, and relevant development frameworks and design codes, provides.[47] Comment

5.7.4 To help deliver the Council's commitment to the historic environment, a Council-wide Medway Heritage Strategy is being produced by the LPA, in collaboration with the culture, regeneration and heritage services and will sit alongside the Medway Local Plan. The initial draft Heritage Strategy (2018) builds upon the findings of Medway's Heritage Asset Review (published in 2017 and update in 2025). The new strategy will also build on the Heritage Asset Review (2025) and the Medway Heritage Audit (2025). The Heritage Strategy will provide a framework for how Medway Council intends to work with stakeholders to conserve, enhance and promote enjoyment of the historic environment both in the immediate and long-term future. Comment

5.8 Heritage assets

5.8.1 The conservation and enhancement of the historic environment is of great importance as it plays a substantial role in place-making, as well as making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness. Heritage assets can be both designated and non-designated. Medway is known for its sometimes highly significant non-designated heritage assets, including a rich archaeological resource. Designated heritage assets in Medway including the following: Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, registered historic parks and gardens and scheduled ancient monuments. Comment

5.8.2 Medway has over 600 Listed Buildings, many of which are concentrated around the Historic Dockyard in Chatham, Brompton, and Rochester. Whilst being of heritage value in their own right, Listed Buildings also contribute to the delivery of a range of social, environmental and economic benefits, as well as providing an important contribution to the character of the area. Comment

5.8.3 There are 24 conservation areas in Medway, all designated in recognition of their special historic and architectural character and appearance. These areas represent the diversity of the historic environment in Medway, including historic town centres, villages, military history and historic farmsteads. Conservations areas are not a statutory designation, unlike listed buildings and scheduled ancient monuments, but local authorities have a duty in s.72 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 to consider the impact of development proposals on their special architectural or historic character and appearance. For this reason, there is a separate policy, DM10, specific to conservation areas. Comment

5.8.4 Historic parks and gardens make a considerable contribution to the character, history, and setting of an area. They can also play an important role to biodiversity and the environment too. Comment

5.8.5 Medway currently has 3 Registered Parks and Gardens (that are wholly or partly in Medway) included on the National Heritage List for England, whilst many others are considered to be of local heritage importance and therefore Non-Designated Heritage Assets. Comment

5.8.6 Due to the importance of the military history in Medway, there are a large number of scheduled ancient monuments which reflect the longstanding strategic defensive role of Medway and the contribution of the Chatham Historic Dockyard to national naval history, as well as its important ecclesiastical history. The 80 monuments include fortifications of different eras, structures related to ship building, pre-historic sites, and former priories and palaces. The importance of scheduled ancient monuments is acknowledged in Medway along with the separate legislation within the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. Comment

5.8.7 There are many heritage assets in Medway that currently do not meet the criteria to be nationally designated; however, they often display local heritage significance that requires consideration in planning decision making. Comment

5.8.8 Local Heritage Lists play an essential role in building and reinforcing a sense of local character and distinctiveness, as well as providing the means for creating a record of non-designated heritage assets and enabling entries on the list to be better taken into account in planning decision making. Comment

5.8.9 Medway Council does not currently have a Local Heritage List but has the ambition to establish one in partnership with the local community, and in-line with Historic England's guidance on Local Heritage Listing. Comment

5.8.10 Currently Non-Designated Heritage Assets are identified by the Council through area-based Planning work such as Conservation Area Appraisals and Design Codes, and also through the Planning and Development Management processes, including archaeological investigations. Comment

Policy DM9: Heritage Assets Comment

Development that impacts a heritage asset, or its setting, should achieve a high quality of design which will preserve and seek to enhance the asset's significance and setting.[48]

Where development impacts upon a heritage asset, or its setting, a heritage statement proportionate to the significance of the asset must be submitted as part of the application. For Historic Parks and Gardens this must include consideration of the landscape architecture, the setting of the historic buildings within or associated to it, along with its visual amenity and wider setting. Where applicable, an Archaeological Assessment and/or Management Plan will also be required.

Development that causes the loss or substantial harm to the significance of a designated heritage asset will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that substantial public benefits will result that outweigh the harm or loss.

The demolition or other loss of a heritage asset will not be permitted unless it can be demonstrated that there are exceptional and overriding reasons; and that all possible methods of preserving the asset have been exhausted. In the exceptional circumstances where the loss of a heritage asset can be fully and robustly justified, the developer must make information about the heritage asset and its significance available to, both the Council and publicly, along with making it possible for any materials and features to be secured and safely stored.

Should permission be granted for demolition or loss of a heritage asset, all or in part, works will not be permitted to commence until it is proven that replacement development will proceed.

Development proposals shall demonstrate:

  • Having met national policy requirements for heritage assets
  • Adherence to advice set out in government historic environment policy and guidance, including Historic England Conservation Principles, Historic England Good Practice Advice Notes and Historic England Advice Notes.
  • Compliance with any relevant published Council resources that address the historic environment, such as Conservation Area Appraisals, SPDs, and Design Codes.
  • Submission of an assessment of how the proposal relates to the local distinctiveness and character of the area.
  • In the case of historic parks and gardens, improvements for public access.

Where a vacant or redundant, or otherwise 'at risk' heritage asset is brought back into use as part of a proposal and its significance is preserved or enhanced consistent with its conservation requirements and ambitions, this will be encouraged.

To help ensure the delivery of high-quality development and to be able to fully assess the impact of a development, proposals should be submitted as full applications when they are within, or would affect, a Conservation Area.

5.8.11 The NPPF provides a range of guidance for delivering sustainable development and the historic environment with specific regard to 'heritage assets' as both designated assets, and any non-designated assets identified by the local planning authority.[49],[50] Comment

5.8.12 A number of designated heritage assets in Medway are identified on the annual Historic England Heritage at Risk Register to be 'at risk' through neglect, decay or other threats. Medway Council intends to supplement Historic England's register with its own that will cover a broader range of heritage assets than those currently included. Heritage assets considered 'at risk' on both national and local registers will be monitored by the Council, who will seek to bring them back into sensitive and sustainable use and/or into a good state of repair. Comment

5.8.13 The Medway Heritage Asset Review 2025 identifies a range of themes that are considered key factors contributing to the local character and distinctiveness, identifying the themes of the designated heritage assets in Medway as well as providing a framework for identifying potential non-designated heritage assets. The Medway Heritage Asset Review provides a starting point for an overview of Medway's historic environment, however there are a range of other published resources, including the Chatham Design Code, that should be consulted as part of development proposals. Comment

5.8.14 The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 is the statutory provision that informs the historic environment policies in the Framework and provides specific protection for buildings and areas of special architectural or historic interest. Comment

5.9 Star Hill to Sun Pier

5.9.1 Medway Council was awarded funding for revitalising the lower High Street which extends from Star Hill in Rochester through to Sun Pier in Chatham and is known to locals as 'Chatham Intra'. This area has a vast amount of historic and conservational interest and has the potential to provide a unique offer to Medway and has been awarded a Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) designation. Comment

5.9.2 Medway Council seeks to-re-establish this area as a social, cultural and retail destination, which will support small to medium sized businesses and social enterprises. The HAZ area is an ideal location for embracing the creative sector – a key economic driver. Comment

5.9.3 Medway Council has prepared and adopted the Star Hill to Sun Pier Development Framework Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) in 2024 to provide considered guidance for future development in the designated area to achieve a balance between preserving and enhancing the historic character of the area. It considers the River Medway; the High Street and adjoining areas; movement and transport; and sustainability amongst other more detailed considerations. The SPD will be a material consideration for development proposals that fall between Star Hill and Sun Pier. Comment

5.9.4 This guidance also plays a role in ensuring an appropriate and complimentary transition into the centres of Chatham and Rochester. Proposals on either ends of the Lower high street that transition into the centres should also be guided by town centre policies, which set out the ambitions for these centres and also the Chatham Design Code 2024. Comment

Policy S9: Star Hill to Sun Pier Comment

The Star Hill to Sun Pier Development Framework includes the Star Hill to Sun Pier Conservation Area and is designated as a Heritage Action Zone. The Star Hill to Sun Pier Development Framework aims at re-establishing the area as a social, cultural and dynamic destination whilst preserving and enhancing the special historic interest and character of the neighbourhood.

Planning applications will be supported where compliant with the Supplementary Planning document adopted in 2024.

5.9.5 This area has long been an area of interest and potential, and the subject of research and planning guidance work. It is a key opportunity area in which to deliver the Council's ambitions, celebrating the area's heritage and delivering on the cultural strategy. With the HAZ funding award, the Council has worked with local communities and wider stakeholders to gather evidence and knowledge to inform a new development framework to guide future proposals. Comment

5.10 Conservation areas

5.10.1 The Conservation Areas in Medway exist to protect and manage features of special historic and architectural interest that are desirable to preserve and enhance. Conservation Areas are particularly sensitive to change, with their character and distinctiveness easily damaged by new development and other changes, such as minor alterations to buildings, signs and traffic. Medway currently has 24 Conservation Areas, for each of which the Council intends to produce a Conservation Area Appraisal to examine the key features that contribute to their special historic or architectural interest. Comment

5.10.2 The special historic and architectural interest of a Conservation Area is not limited to the buildings contained within. Other features such as the setting, open spaces, trees, street furniture, roads and footpaths, areas between and around buildings, and views to, from and within a Conservation Area are also often as important as the buildings and areas themselves. Comment

Policy DM10: Conservation Areas Comment

Development within or affecting the setting of a Conservation Area will be encouraged where it contributes positively to the conservation and enhancement of the character, appearance and distinctiveness of the area.

Any proposals for development within a Conservation Area must demonstrate that they:

Respond positively and sensitively to the guidance within the Conservation Area Appraisal (where they have been prepared).

  • Have due regard to that part of the setting of the Conservation Area that would contribute to its significance.
  • Respect the historical and architectural interest of the area.
  • Use materials and details that are appropriate and sympathetic to the locality and existing buildings.
  • Retain historical and architectural features of the area.
  • Remove features that detract from the character of the area unless demonstrated as unachievable.

5.10.3 The NPPF sets out what is to be taken into account when determining applications which includes positive contributions to the area and revealing its significance.[51] Comment

5.10.4 In addition, the Council has prepared a number of Conservation Area Appraisals which identify the Conservation Area's special interest, character and appearance and are a material consideration in decisions affecting the area. Comment

5.11 Scheduled monuments and archaeological sites

5.11.1 There are currently 80 Scheduled Monuments in Medway, as well as numerous important archaeological sites and areas of known archaeological potential. Comment

5.11.2 Scheduled Monuments are afforded a high level of protection through the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. Comment

5.11.3 There is a presumption against development proposals that would adversely impact a Scheduled Monument or its setting. Comment

5.11.4 Some archaeological sites in Medway are not currently designated as Scheduled Monuments but may be of comparable significance and therefore should be treated as such. Comment

5.11.5 The potential for archaeological remains will need to be taken into consideration in development proposals. On sites where there is potential for archaeological remains, we would encourage applicants to consult both the local planning authority and the Heritage Conservation Team at Kent County Council at an early stage, preferably as part of a pre-application. Comment

5.11.6 Applicants will need to demonstrate that archaeology has been adequately assessed as part of a development proposal, and a detailed written archaeological assessment will be required to be submitted with an application for development. Comment

Policy DM11: Scheduled Monuments and Archaeological Sites Comment

Development that adversely affects Scheduled Monuments and/or their setting, and other archaeological sites of comparable significance will not be permitted.

Where development impacts or has the potential to impact heritage assets with archaeological interest, a desk-based assessment, and where appropriate, a field evaluation will be required.

Where development is permitted that affects a heritage asset with archaeological interest, there will be a preference for the preservation in-situ of the archaeology. In instances where the preservation in-situ is not possible or justified, the developer may be required to make provision for the archaeological excavation and recording to be undertaken by an approved archaeological body and in accordance with a specification and programme of work to be submitted to and approved by the Council. Developers will be required to make this evidence (and any archive generated) publicly accessible.

5.11.7 Legislation (as noted above) recognises the importance of and provides protection to Scheduled Monuments. National planning policy supports this approach, with substantial harm to scheduled monuments being wholly exceptional, and any harm to heritage assets needing to be justified in the planning application. Comment

5.11.8 This approach provides for the potential of archaeological remains to be acknowledged and investigated and also gives the appropriate level of protection for Scheduled Monuments and heritage assets with archaeological interest on sites in Medway. Comment

[42] Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (2015). Statutory Guidance: Technical Housing Standards – Nationally Described Space Standard. Available at Statutory Guidance: Technical Housing Standards – Nationally Described Space Standard [Accessed 17 June 2025]

[43] Historic England (2023). Climate Change and Historic Building Adaptation. Available at Climate Change Historic Building Adaptation [Accessed 17 June 2025]

[44] Medway Council. Guide to Good Practice in Shopfront Design. Available at Guide to Good Practice in Shopfront Design [Accessed 17 June 2025]

[45] Medway Council (2015) Shopfront Advertising Guide. Available at Shopfront Advertising Guide [Accessed 17 June 2025]

[46] Medway Council (2015) Shopfront Security: A Guide to Medway Council's Planning Policies. Available at Shopfront Security: A Guide to Medway Council's Planning Policies [Accessed 17 June 2025]

[47] Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (2024). National Planning Policy Framework. Available at National Planning Policy Framework [Accessed 17 June 2025]

[48] Ibid

[49] Ibid

[50] Ibid

[51] Ibid

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