The masterplan for the redevelopment of Chatham Docks Industrial Estate has been unveiled by regeneration business Peel L&P as it sets out its early vision for the area. The 90-acre site will feature approximately 3,600 new homes, a one million square foot new employment zone which will create in excess of 2,000 new jobs as well as new vibrant, green open and community spaces equating to approximately 35 acres and much improved connectivity for neighbouring areas, creating a waterfront destination fit for the future.
Peel L&P has been investing in Medway for over a decade at its Chatham Waters development. Since 2011, Peel L&P has invested £125 million in the redevelopment of the brownfield site, creating around 750 full time jobs and 400 new homes, with a further 550 to be built over the next four years including 237 affordable homes and a new care home as well as an Asda grocery store and petrol station, Waterfront UTC, and Mast & Rigging pub and restaurant. There is a further £350 million to be invested over the next four years in Chatham Waters specifically on green community areas and an events zone.
James Whittaker, Executive Director of Development at Peel L&P said: “Medway is bursting with opportunity and Chatham Waters is well placed to help deliver more jobs, improve the environment and connectivity to the river and public transport creating a community that meets the needs of Chatham residents. The vision is for a mixed–use sustainable community with a large employment area focusing on the digital, creative and health sectors along with a mix of homes including affordable homes, family housing, build to rent, open market and elderly living. The waterfront is a beautiful place, we have the chance to maximise this and create a community benefit that means all can enjoy the health and wellbeing advantages associated with this.”
Chatham Waters is one of Peel L&P’s seven waterfront regeneration schemes across England and Scotland under its newly named Peel Waters portfolio with 30,000 homes and 10 million sq ft of commercial space and around 160 acres of public realm in the development pipeline over the next 20 to 25 years.
James continued: “This vision is at a very early stage, it is the first time we have released this to the community and are keen to understand the views and opinions of Medway residents, businesses and community groups. We will be consulting on this masterplan in due course, and we are keen to hear from you at each stage.”
Chatham Docks Industrial Estate is a natural extension to the existing Chatham Waters development and will ensure that the waterfront is made available for all to enjoy. Currently Chatham Docks Industrial Estate is home to industrial businesses, many of whom don’t utilise the port facilities and suitable relocation sites are being explored to safeguard the existing jobs. The freight lock gates will be closing in 2025 as they reach the end of their effective life. This is why Peel L&P has been exploring a new vision for the brownfield land which meets local needs whilst also working with the local authority and tenants to identify new premises and ensure a smooth transition for all concerned.
