Richborough supports the reference to the need to demonstrate that the growth strategy is deliverable, to provide certainty and confidence in Medway’s growth.
In accordance with the proposed strategy it will be critical for supporting evidence base documents to interrogate the viability of delivering sites at the density suggested and to thoroughly test the estimated delivery timescales of sites within the trajectory based on the level of infrastructure provision required. While there is no information available as to the delivery of the committed sites, the estimated delivery timescales for emerging allocations will need to factor in the speed with which strategic infrastructure works can be completed.
The viability of the proposed allocations should also comprehensively address the response to the loss of HIF funding for infrastructure improvement schemes, originally awarded to help deliver housing on the Hoo peninsular. While some development in Hoo may still be considered suitable, adequate evidence will need to be provided to show how sites can viably and sustainably come forward whilst also providing obligations to the necessary infrastructure improvements.