[TO BE READ ALONGSIDE FULL REPRESENTATIONS SUBMITTED TO THE COUNCIL ON 06/09/24]
3.6 As stated above the LP2041 sets out three broad options for growth:
i. SGO1 – Urban Focus
ii. SGO2 – Dispersed Growth
iii. SGO3 – Blended Strategy
3.7 The consultation reflects that a ‘urban focus’ approach alone is unlikely to meet growth needs in full with only a limited supply of previously developed land available to accommodate this. At paragraph 3.1.6 of the LP2041 the Council confirms that rural and suburban areas offer potential for development and there has been a strong promotion of the sites in these areas. The Council also confirms that it needs to consider “…large and strategic scale development allocations in the Local Plan to address the communities needs for homes jobs and services”.
3.8 There are however sensitivities across the Medway, including important habitats and landscapes, and the Green Belt, which need consideration. Nevertheless, the Council acknowledges that in order to meet the full scale of needs over the Plan period, complex issues will need to be considered and addressed as part of the development secured, including any mitigation necessary (paragraph 3.1.7 of the LP2041).
3.9 The Council identify the blended approach (SGO3) as its preferred strategy for meeting growth needs. Marrons considers this is the right approach, supported by a strong mix of urban, suburban and rural development to deliver the diverse needs of the community. The Council has already commented on the needs of communities being met through larger scale developments and Catesby Estates reiterates comments made in previous representations that such development can help fund key infrastructure improvements, that benefit existing communities and help Medway implement its economic strategy.
3.10 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, in line with the Council’s preferred spatial option.