1. The following representations are made in response to Medway Council’s (the “Council”) Local Plan 2040 (LP2040) Regulation 18 Consultation – Setting the Direction for Medway 2040 (September 2023) on behalf of Catesby Estates, in respect of its land interests at Allhallows, Rochester, Medway.

2. These representations should be read alongside the following supporting document:

a. Catesby Estates – Allhallows Vision Document

3. The Council has not proposed specific questions as part of this consultation, therefore Marrons’ response follows the chapters within the LP2040 and makes comments where appropriate.

Chapter 1 – Introduction

4. The LP2040 states within the introduction that this consultation does not detail policies or identify those sites preferred for new development. Catesby Estates supports the approach the Council has taken in looking at the needs of Medway holistically, given the unique context of the area. In planning for development to 2040 it is important to consider proportionality and deliverability across the plan period. Consequently, as commented on in more detail later in these representations, Catesby Estates considers that the most suitable approach is one which delivers housing and prosperity via a range of options.

Chapter 2 – Context

5. The LP2040 notes that Medway is a complex place, with distinct towns and villages that have strong identities and heritage, but looks to the future with innovation and enterprise. Catesby Estates considers that any strategic plan for the region should therefore consider how the region can be developed to encourage and sustain Medway’s growth to 2040. It is therefore encouraging that the LP2040 also states that people will be at the centre of the Plan and it will consider the diverse communities who make up Medway. Catesby Estates also supports the notion in the LP2040 that “housing-led growth can support wider investment in services and businesses and contribute to shaping the character of new and existing communities” (paragraph 2.7).

6. Catesby Estates agrees with the Council’s assertion that the LP2040 can help Medway ‘capitalise on its strategic advantages for businesses, with transport links, proximity to London, the cluster of universities and colleges, and a diverse portfolio of employment plan’ (paragraph 2.8). There are clearly opportunities to attract more businesses to set up locally and re-balance the commuting patterns, something the LP2040 notes as being ‘central to Medway’s economic strategy’ (paragraph 2.8). This can be achieved by creating vibrant and well-connected communities with a range of uses and a choice of homes.

7. Notably, as the LP2040 comments, Government funding has been withdrawn from the Housing Infrastructure Fund (HIF) for strategic transport and environmental schemes. The HIF programme was central to the delivery of key infrastructure ahead of growth coming forwards and it is acknowledged that there are pressures on the existing infrastructure. Catesby Estates considers that development can help fund key infrastructure improvements, that benefit existing communities and help Medway implement its economic strategy. Notwithstanding, the delivery of infrastructure improvements must be sustainable in order to keep pace with growth and Catesby Estates suggests this is best achieved by a balanced approach across Medway, rather than in one focus area.

Chapter 3 – Vision for Medway in 2040

8. Catesby Estates supports the vision outlined within the LP2040, particularly where it references the unique characters that contribute to the areas identify, involving coastal, countryside and urban locations. It is important that all areas of Medway enjoy the planned growth available via the LP2040 and the associated benefits it can bring.