Section 8 of the NPPF provides guidance on ‘Promoting Healthy and Safe Communities’. The proposed objective in the Medway Local Plan actively meets this objective and is therefore supported. But, respectfully it is considered that there is an omission in how
the objective is drafted.

The intentions of the third bullet point, proposes to strengthen the role of Medway's urban, neighbourhood and village centres…” This position is supported, but it is considered that ‘urban and rural extensions’ should also be included in this objective,
especially, as the inclusion of urban and rural extensions are included within the proposed spatial strategy for delivering growth.

Previous representations have been submitted on behalf of our client that promote the use of suburban expansion to deliver growth, especially on the edge of Rainham. It is considered that the provision of these extensions will help to develop and strengthen
transport networks and safe and sustainable travel as advocated elsewhere through the plan.

Bloors Farm continues to be available and achievable and would provide an alternative option for edge of settlement development.

The second bullet point, which references promoting healthy eating and physical exercise, is supported. Whilst it is set out that planning can help contribute to healthier food environments by managing the availability of fast-food outlets, acknowledgment
should be given to supporting the industries/businesses that are responsible for the delivery of healthy produce, especially, as is the case with AC Goatham and Son, where they are growing fruit and managing the landscape