Medway Developer Contributions and Obligations Guide
17.1 Background
17.1.1 An estimated 30% of Medway’s adult population and over 20% of children (at the age of ten) are classified as obese. The National Child Measurement Programme 2023/24 data showed Medway had rates above the England average. Medway obesity prevalence among 4–5-year-olds was 11.4% and 24.4% among children aged 10–11-year-olds (NCMP, 2024).
17.1.2 There are, as of April 2025 272 registered hot food takeaways in Medway – equating to 1 per 1,075 people. The majority of these premises are located in town, local and neighbourhood centres. It has been shown that there is a correlation between areas of multiple deprivation and where hot food takeaways locate.
17.1.3 In an effort to reduce childhood obesity in particular, Medway Council has produced a guidance note that seeks to decrease the prevalence of hot food takeaways in the area. New hot food takeaways of 100m2, where they are deemed appropriate development, would be charged a fixed fee of £1,530.08.
17.1.4 This fee will contribute to the delivery of targeted interventions aimed at reducing childhood obesity within the ward. Initiatives will be developed in partnership with local stakeholders, including educational institutions, voluntary and community sector organisations, faith groups, physical activity providers, and youth services. Proposed activities may include the provision of nutritional education and resources, food growing schemes, improved access to existing facilities for children with additional needs, and the commissioning of structured physical activity programmes.
Charge: £1,530.08 or new hot food takeaways of at least 100m2
17.2 Policy/Evidence Base
The National Planning Policy Framework (2024)
Using the planning system to promote healthy weight environments Guidance and supplementary planning document template for local authority public health and planning teams
