Plans for homes at sailing club site submitted

The draft designs have developed over the course of a public consultation which have seen the height of the flats being proposed reduced

A disused gas works could be transformed into hundreds of new homes and pave the way for the relocation of a popular sailing club.

The former Southern Gas Networks (SGN) depot, near The Strand in Gillingham, is the subject of an outline planning application for up to 500 flats by Blueberry Homes.

The plans, submitted to Medway Council, would redevelop the site and include a 140-room retirement living complex, new supermarket, commercial units and offices.

John Malloy, a spokesperson for the affected Segas Sailing Club, said the developers "can only be seen as welcome shot in the arm that will better guarantee the continued life of this much-loved iconic club and charity".

The Ramsgate-based developer put draft versions of its plans out for a public consultation to locals back in January

If approved by the council, Blueberry Developments would build a new facility housing both Segas Sailing Club and Medway Water Sports, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

This would involve moving the club next door to the current home of Medway Water Sports Trust, a local charity that provides access to all forms of water-based activities.

The 11-acre plot neighbours the Gillingham Marina and designs submitted by Blueberry show a number of public realm improvements, including footpaths and cycle paths through from the marina to The Strand.

Responses from residents

Public feedback on the developer's draft plans showed concerns about the impact of new residents on the road network, and the risk of increased congestion and reduced safety.

A Blueberry Developments Estates spokesperson said: "We are delighted to have submitted our plans to regenerate the old gas works site, creating new homes, jobs and a fantastic place for people to visit."

Medway Council is considering the plans and responses from residents can be submitted to its planning portal.