TMBC note that Medway Council (MC) is planning for an identified housing need for 1,658 homes a year, over the plan period to 2041 using the previous government’s standard method. Clarification is sought of the base date of the plan, and the net need over the plan period taking into account all sources of supply.

TMBC note that this consultation commenced prior to the proposed revision of the standard method for calculating housing need as set out in the Government’s consultation National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Clarification is sough from MC on the potential impact on revised housing numbers and programme timeframes that may result from the publication of a revised NPPF later this year and the proposed transitional arrangements put forward as part of the NPPF and planning reform consultation.

The TMBC response to the previous Regulation 18 consultation in Autumn 2023 noted a request to Medway Council from Gravesham Borough Council, to consider if there is capacity to provide up to an additional 2,000 homes to help meet Gravesham’s housing needs. TMBC would welcome clarity on whether this request remains and if it has been accommodated within this Regulation 18 Local Plan.