Outline plans for 202 family homes in Medway get the go ahead

Plans to build 202 new family homes with provision for affordable housing in Medway, Kent have taken a step forward after receiving planning approval.

At last night’s planning committee (29 April), held virtually, Medway Council issued outline planning consent to Peel L&P’s proposals for new homes at a vacant 23-acre site south of Lower Rainham Road in Rainham.

The permission allows for a range of new family homes with between two and five bedrooms to be built to meet local housing demand.

25% of the development would be earmarked for affordable rent through a registered social landlord and shared ownership to help first-time buyers.

As part of the proposals, Peel L&P would contribute around £2.5m towards a sustainable transport infrastructure for the area as well as improvements to local education, health facilities, highways, public footpaths and green open space.

The financial support would also extend to upgrading Rainham library, Splashes leisure centre and providing better facilities and services for young people.

Phil Wilson, Peel L&P’s Executive Director for Land, Communities and Homebuilding said: “We’ve worked in partnership with surrounding landowners to bring this site forward for people who need it most and we’re pleased the council is continuing to progress much-needed planning applications to keep the economy going during these uncertain times.

“We’ve consulted with local people on our plans which will bring forward around £2.5m of improvements to the area including health and education facilities which we hope will have a positive impact on the community for many years to come.

“The next step now is to work with a suitable homebuilder to develop the site and bring the homes to the market.”