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Chatham Docks Basin 3 Redevelopment
01 May 2024
Lead MP
Kelly Tolhurst
Rochester and Strood
Con
Responding Minister
Lee Rowley
Tags
EconomyHousingEmploymentLocal Government
Word Count: 9290
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Kelly Tolhurst raised concerns about chatham docks basin 3 redevelopment in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
I urge the government to support a local plan that prioritises the preservation of Chatham docks as a commercial port. This includes endorsing the SPPARC Architecture masterplan for revitalisation and ensuring the long-term viability of high-value industries within the basin, which contribute significantly to Medway's economy.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The proposal to redevelop Chatham docks into a residential-led mixed-use development has raised concerns about the sustainability, quality of jobs, environmental impact, and displacement of thriving industries. The dockyard is home to nearly 20 businesses, including ArcelorMittal, Aggregate Industries, and European Active Projects Ltd, which directly employ 795 people and indirectly support another 1,500 jobs, with a combined turnover of nearly £175 million in 2021. The redevelopment plans have shifted focus from the initial promise of job creation to predominantly retail and hospitality sectors, resulting in only around 200 full-time jobs materialising since 2013.
Greenwich and Woolwich
Inquired whether ArcelorMittal is the only tenant in basin 3 that has not agreed to relocate and asked about the lack of updates to the local plan since 2003. Mr. Matthew Pennycook acknowledged the historical significance of Chatham docks but expressed concerns about the lack of strategic planning and insufficient funding for housing development in Medway Council's area, highlighting the need for a more coordinated approach to meet housing targets. Clarified that when Medway submits a draft local plan, it must start with the standard method number and justify any deviation. Criticised the Government's NPPF changes for leading to reduced housing targets in many areas.
Neil Coyle
Lab
Bermondsey and Old Southwark
Asked Sir Philip Davies about the rules regarding declaring interests at the start of a debate, urging the right hon. Member to make any relevant declarations.
Theresa Villiers
Con
Downeast
Suggested focusing on respecting the character of surrounding areas when deciding what developments should be built, highlighting the need for larger family homes. Asked the shadow Minister to distance himself from comments that local communities' views would be ignored in determining what gets built at Chatham Docks. One of the important changes in the new NPPF is the affirmation that councils should not be forced to build at densities significantly out of character with surrounding areas. Asked the Minister how this change was operating in practice and its impact on developments such as Chatham Docks Basin 3.
Government Response
Lee Rowley
Government Response
The Minister of State for Housing outlined the Government's long-term plan for housing, which aims to build more houses in appropriate locations while respecting local characteristics. He highlighted changes to the National Planning Policy Framework made in December 2023 to support sustainable development and noted ongoing discussions with Medway Council regarding timely implementation of planning policies. The Minister criticized Labour's record on delivering housing targets and emphasized the importance of local authorities adhering to the NPPF to ensure balanced development.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.