Vote on controversial docks scheme postponed

A planning decision on the proposals for Chatham Docks has been postponed following a legal challenge

A vote on whether to allow a scheme that would see the last working docks in Medway, Kent, closed has been postponed.

The controversial plan was due to be considered by Medway Council on Wednesday, but was dropped following a legal challenge.

Owners Peel Waters want to redevelop the site into a business hub.

The challenge came from ArcelorMittal Kent Wire, a company based on the site, which supplies steel reinforcement to the construction industry.

The challenge was based on the firm's right to automatically renew its lease in 2025, something it said it would be denied the chance to do if Medway Council changed the land's use to residential rather than commercial.

The company's chief executive, Phil Taylor, told BBC Radio Kent: "If we lose Chatham Docks to a residential-lead development, then Chatham Docks would be lost forever.

"Every significant infrastructure project that you can think of, HS2, the London Thames Tideway, steel reinforcement was supplied from Chatham.

"We employ 150 people and we're in Chatham Docks because of the water connection that allows us to bring significant amounts of raw material in by boat."

The project is currently unable to go ahead regardless of Medway Council's decision, as Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove is considering calling the project in, at the request of Rochester and Strood Conservative MP Kelly Tolhurst.

The item was due to be discussed at a planning meeting on 8 May

Leigh Thomas, development director at Peel Waters said: "Whilst we’re disappointed the planning application won’t be going to planning committee, the significant benefits that the Basin3 proposals will deliver remain unchanged.

"Outline planning permission for the Basin3 proposals will help attract significant inward investment into Medway."