Overall, CCE support the vision and strategic objectives set out in the consultation document. In particular ‘to provide for high quality energy efficient homes that meet the housing needs of Medway’s communities reflecting the range of sizes, types and affordability the area needs’ alongside ‘the provision of a portfolio of good quality employment land’. The objectives also, importantly, recognise development should be of high quality, resilient and supported by the timely provision of infrastructure to facilitate a sustainable and green future. CCE support the intention to deliver sustainable development, meeting the needs of Medway’s communities whilst respecting the natural and historic environment and directing growth to the most suitable locations.

The Council may need to consider extending the plan period beyond 2040, noting the intention is to adopt the Plan at the earliest in 2025 and the NPPF (2023), paragraph 22, states that strategic policies should look ahead over a minimum 15-year period from adoption.