4.1 Introduction

4.1.1 This chapter deals with employment and tourism, which are major components of Medway’s economy. The aim of the council is to make Medway a leading European city region whose performance matches or exceeds that of similar regions elsewhere. It also aims to improve Medway’s image and raise awareness of the area as a tourist destination.

4.1.2 For the purposes of this chapter, employment covers the use of land and premises for industrial and commercial business but excludes retail, leisure, health and community uses, which are covered elsewhere in the plan. Employment uses are defined in the Town & Country Planning Use Classes Order 1987 (as amended) : Class A2 uses are financial & professional services; Class B1 uses are business uses including non-A2 offices, research and development and light industry; Class B2 uses are general industry; Class B8 covers storage and distribution uses.

4.1.3 The local plan can, through the allocation of land for different uses, promote, encourage and protect industrial and commercial development and tourism, whilst ensuring that all development proposals accord with the principles of environmental sustainability. It is important that sites are of suitable environmental and locational quality to provide Medway with a marketable land supply, which will prove attractive to business and increase the level of tourism. In this respect the key objective of the plan will be to make provision for a range of sites to meet the needs of different types of business and tourism, to encourage diversification in the local economy.

4.1.4 Medway is well placed to benefit from any increase in economic activity in the region, with a wide range of quality developments and good communication links with both UK and European markets. North Kent remains an ideal location between London and mainland Europe for international companies planning to take advantage of the Single European Market. Medway has good accessibility to the Channel Tunnel and Kent ports and can provide a clean and spacious environment suitable for modern business. In commercial terms, there is a solid base of existing companies with a skilled and flexible workforce supported by good training facilities. The inclusion of the area within the Thames Gateway recognises the important role it can play in the economic development of the South-East region.

4.1.5 Medway has been successful in promoting a variety of tourist attractions in recent years and these are now well established destinations in South East England. Rochester city centre remains the focus of tourist activity, containing many fine Listed Buildings and attractions such as the castle, the cathedral, the Dickens Centre and the Guildhall Museum. The Historic Dockyard is also a major tourist destination and is being managed as a “living museum”. Other noteworthy attractions include the Royal Engineers Museum at Brompton, Upnor Castle and Fort Amherst, the finest Napoleonic fortress in the country.  

4.2 Policy Context

Central Government Guidance

4.2.1 Government policy for planning and economic development is set out in Planning Policy Guidance Notes 4, 12 and 13, which emphasise that local planning authorities must have regard to the importance of encouraging industrial and commercial development in the interests of the national as well as the local economy. In this respect Development Plans should be seen to encourage employment and take into account the future needs of local business including land supply and the opportunities for economic growth. Policies that include economic priorities should provide for choice, flexibility and competition. The Government has stated that it wishes to see economic growth and a high quality environment pursued together. Development Plans must contain clear land use policies for different types of industrial and commercial development and positive policies to provide for the needs of small businesses. They should aim to ensure that there is sufficient land available to meet differing needs which is both capable of development and well served by infrastructure.

4.2.2. Government guidance on tourism is principally set out in PPG21 ”Tourism”, which seeks to enable the tourism industry to flourish whilst ensuring that those qualities in the environment that are a major attraction for visitors are conserved. Central to this policy is the achievement of sustainable development that serves the interest of both economic growth and conservation of the environment. The Government recognises that the planning system has an important role to play in facilitating tourist development, including the improvement of existing tourist attractions in a manner that maintains the qualities of our natural and built heritage. There is also the opportunity to utilise tourism as an element of urban regeneration schemes. In summary, the Government recognises that planning has a positive role to play in assisting tourism development but in doing so regard must be had to other related policies and the impact of proposals.

Regional Policy

4.2.3 The “Regional Planning Guidance for the South East’” (RPG9) emphasises the vital role of the South East in the development of the UK economy. The Government is keen to develop the scope for co-ordinated land use and transport in order to meet environmental objectives. In developing employment policies, local planning authorities should have regard to the following key principles:

(i) All development should be planned in a way that works towards securing the objectives of sustainable development.

(ii) The immediate priority is to provide for economic recovery focusing on existing planning permissions and land use allocations and available or planned infrastructure. Planning policy should not seek to constrain economic activity at the regional level.

(iii) The fullest possible use should be made of opportunities for redevelopment and recycling of urban land to improve the urban environment and avoid the need to take greenfield sites.

(iv) Development should respect the region’s valuable environmental features.

(v) Planning and transport policies should be co-ordinated to maintain and improve communications, reduce congestion in areas of development pressure, provide a better relationship between homes, the workplace and other activities, encourage energy efficient modes of transport and facilitate environmental improvement.

4.2.4 The Government has identified the eastern area of the region as containing the main locations with potential for development. The area is seen as having long term capacity to accept significant levels of housing and employment development alongside improvements in environmental quality. It is seeking to redress the economic imbalance that has arisen over the past 20 years as a result of faster economic growth in the western half of the region. It recognises that the Thames Gateway has not realised its full potential for development and regeneration and has suffered higher unemployment than the regional average.

4.2.5 The guidance points to several factors, which are likely to change the balance of economic growth over the next 20 years. These include current and future investment in transport infrastructure (including links to Europe) and environmental constraints which are restricting growth in the more congested areas of the region. The Thames Gateway has been identified as a priority area by the Government because of the opportunities it presents between London (as Europe’s largest city) and the expanding market place in mainland Europe. Planning authorities should recognise the importance of this by a positive approach to industry, whilst giving due consideration to the quality of environment and balancing the needs of visitors against that of the host community.

Thames Gateway Planning Framework

4.2.6 The “Thames Gateway Planning Framework” (RPG 9a) provides a common vision and purpose for the sub-region. In broad terms it seeks to optimise the allocation of uses to the main development opportunities having regard to capacity and transport infrastructure. It confirms the availability of sites within Medway and its role as a main development location. The framework acknowledges the recent growth that has occurred in the financial services sector but identifies a continuing need to strengthen the area’s attractiveness to enterprise and improve its competitiveness. It sees the scope for substantial office development as being limited and instead advocates provision for the distribution/logistics sector, environmental technology, strategic port uses, and conference and exhibition facilities.

4.2.7 The main development opportunities identified are at Chatham Maritime, Rochester Riverside, Gillingham Business Park and the Frindsbury Peninsula. Support for the regeneration and improvement of the existing urban area is implied by the framework, together with protection for its environmental setting. The size and remoteness of the large industrial sites on the Isle of Grain and at Kingsnorth makes them suitable for accommodating those employment uses which may not be easily accommodated elsewhere, including land extensive uses with low employment rates and those uses difficult to accommodate within urban areas. The framework stipulates that a clear context should be provided by the Development Plan to encourage accommodation for these uses without incurring damage to the natural environment. Also on the Isle of Grain, the framework identifies the increasing importance of Thamesport as a deep water port and the need to improve transport links to reflect this potential.

4.2.8 The framework recognises that tourism currently under-performs in the area, but is an industry with significant prospects for economic growth. The history of the Thames Gateway and its heritage provide scope to develop heritage experiences to rival those of established national tourist destinations. In this respect the framework acknowledges the work that has already been done at Rochester and at the former Naval Dockyard at Chatham. Notwithstanding this, it identifies the opportunity to consider the relationship between individual tourist attractions and create linkages where these are missing. Local authorities are also encouraged to consider the effects of adjoining land uses on visitor attractions and to provide for a range of hotel accommodation specifically for the visitor market. In the advice relating to Medway, the framework identifies the importance of an effective link between Rochester Riverside and the historic core of the town and between the former Naval Dockyard and Chatham Maritime.

Kent Structure Plan 1996

4.2.9 The main theme of the structure plan is economic growth coupled with care for the environment. The strategic economic development policies of the plan are to stimulate economic activity through the growth of existing business and the attraction of new firms, and to capitalise on the physical proximity to Europe. North Kent is seen as a priority area, particularly in the context of the Thames Gateway initiative, and the plan promotes the upgrading of the environment and enhancement of the area’s image. The strategic policy for Medway is to promote development through reinvestment in the urban fabric, including the redevelopment and recycling of underused and derelict land, with a focus on riverside sites.

4.2.10 A key objective of the structure plan is to ensure that there are sufficient opportunities for employment uses in order to meet the requirements of the existing and future workforce (including the unemployed). The employment needs of an area are expressed in terms of the additional floorspace required for employment uses. The floorspace figure is derived from the conversion of the labour supply projections to a corresponding scale of industrial and commercial development. Regard is also had to the economic strategy for the county, strategic development opportunities and environmental constraints, as well as land supply and past completion rates.

4.2.11 Structure plan policy ED1 indicates that the provision of floorspace for business (A2/B1) and industrial and storage/distribution (B2 and B8) development should be made in accordance with the following guidelines:

4.2.12 However, since the structure plan covers the period 1991-2011 and the local plan covers the period 1991-2006, Medway Council has found it necessary to disaggregate the floorspace figures in policy ED1 to reflect the period of the local plan. The effect of this is to give a local plan requirement for 2001-2006 of 65,000 sq.m. of A2/B1 uses and 85,000 sq.m. of B2/B8 uses. The total provision for 1991-2006 is therefore 285,000 sq.m. for A2/B1 and 285,000 sq.m. for B2/B8.

4.2.13 The structure plan acknowledges that part of the total land supply is represented by several large sites outside the urban area and that development of these sites is likely to be partial or with low employment uses and not likely to occur before 2001. Furthermore, 192 ha of land at the Isle of Grain is likely to be developed for uses which will not count towards meeting the structure plan guidelines.

4.2.14 Structure plan policy ED2 stresses that the allocation of land for economic development should have regard to the availability and quality of commitments. It also states that where circumstances warrant, specific reservations for bad neighbour uses can be made. Policy ED3 identifies the Isle of Grain as a suitable location for major distribution and transhipment proposals, to take advantage of access to rail and port facilities subject to improvements being made to the A228. Policy P8 allows for the expansion of Thamesport for deep sea and cross-channel traffic. Policy ED4 stresses the need to provide sites and premises to meet the needs of small firms through the conversion of suitable buildings in both urban and certain rural locations, on larger industrial estates and on suitable infill sites.

4.2.15 Structure plan tourism policies support new development, including the expansion and upgrading of existing establishments. In particular policy ED13 indicates that in North Kent the provision of major tourism facilities of national or regional significance may be permitted in the countryside where such a location can be justified. In adopting this approach, the structure plan recognises the need to achieve a balance between economic development objectives and local environment and amenity considerations. It recognises that the benefits for visitors and residents derived from the provision of tourism and leisure facilities can easily be outweighed by development pressures or excessive numbers of visitors in sensitive areas. Proposals must therefore be consistent with the structure plan’s environment, transportation and green belt policies.

Medway Economic Development Strategy

4.2.16 In 1999, Medway Council adopted an economic development strategy for the period up to 2010. By then the strategy aims to take Medway well on the way to becoming a leading European City region whose performance matches or exceeds that of similar regions elsewhere in the UK and European Union.

4.2.17 Medway’s strategy is not just about economic development. The target of creating an additional 11,000 new jobs, and achieving the longer-term vision of transforming Medway into a leading European City region will have wider social and economic benefits and will help to improve the quality of life for all Medway’s residents.

4.2.18 To take the strategy forward, four main action plans have been defined.

A. DEVELOPING THE COMPETITIVENESS OF MEDWAY BUSINESSES

(i) Identifying key sectors and clusters in Medway whose competitiveness and growth prospects will largely determine the outlook for the local economy as a whole:

• Financial and business services – including information technology
• High technology manufacturing – engineering, electronics, pharmaceuticals and other manufacturing
• Transport and distribution/ value added logistics
• Other key sectors- retail, education, construction, tourism and related sectors.

(ii) Consider establishing sector groups and working with local firms to identify the factors that are critical to growth and competitiveness and developing sector specific actions to address them.

(iii) Developing emerging sectors in the Medway economy and ensuring that local firms innovate and take advantage of new technology through the development of a Medway business incubator and a technology park.

(iv) Ensuring that Medway offers a comprehensive and integrated range of first-class business support services including appropriate finance, through a partners for growth scheme.

(v) Developing a Medway business competitiveness initiative enabling firms to identify their strengths and weaknesses and to obtain access to good practice examples.

(vi) Ensuring that economic growth is not at the expense of the environment.

B. PROMOTING MEDWAY’S INWARD INVESTMENT POTENTIAL

(i) Defining a clear message concerning what Medway has to offer to inward investors.

(ii) Defining targets that are consistent with Medway’s competitive strengths and where there are mobile projects:

• Financial and business services, insurance and value-added logistics;
• Engineering, electronics, pharmaceuticals and other high-tech manufacturing activities.

(iii) In the targeted sectors, placing emphasis on attracting research and development-intensive functions (manufacturing) and technology-based, high value-added projects such as shared service centres and call centres (services).

(iv) Further investment in Medway’s physical infrastructure to ensure that the area offers first-class sites and premises to prospective inward investors.

(v) In addition to attracting new inward investment, ensuring that companies already located in Medway remain and grow in the area.

C. HELPING MEDWAY PEOPLE DEVELOP THEIR SKILLS AND JOB PROSPECTS

(i) Raising primary and secondary educational attainment levels and improving awareness amongst young people of careers and job opportunities in Medway firms.

(ii) Raising education and vocational training levels in Medway’s workforce, together with capacity building.

(iii) Combating social exclusion and ensuring that local people are in a position to take advantage of employment opportunities.

(iv) Encouraging Medway firms to invest in the development of workforce and management skills.

(v) Establishing Medway as a learning city by developing a culture of lifelong learning and ensuring that there is appropriate local provision at all levels, from pre-school to higher education.

D. PROMOTING MEDWAY AS AN ATTRACTIVE PLACE TO LIVE, WORK AND VISIT.

(i) The need to improve Medway’s image and raise awareness of the area as a place to live, work and visit.

(ii) Developing the town centres and Chatham as Medway’s city centre.

(iii) An emphasis on developing the Medway tourism and leisure product that results in greater number of overnight stays and higher spending by visitors in the local economy.

(iv) Linked to this, the need to develop a more comprehensive range of visitor facilities – by diversifying from heritage into a wider range of retail, leisure and entertainment attractions.

(v) Developing a major Medway conference and events venue, supported by investment to improve hotel accommodation, particularly in the central area of Medway such as the riverside, and to upgrade local transport links between different areas/ attractions in Medway.

(vi) Ensuring that the tourism strategy is part of a wider strategy aimed at fostering civic pride and a strong local identity and sense of place. In short, promoting Medway as a place to visit depends on it being a thriving community and exciting place to be.

(vii) Actions to improve Medway as a place to live, work and visit – mainly covered by the Medway Council strategic plan (health, housing, the environment etc.) 

4.3 Recent Employment Trends and Issues

4.3.1 During the period 1981-91 the national trend was for employment in manufacturing to decline and for service sector jobs to increase. This was the case in the South East, although in north Kent the decline in manufacturing was more severe and the area’s share of service sector growth was less than the average. The onset of a recession in 1990 created difficult trading conditions in all business sectors, particularly for small and medium sized companies. Whereas the south east economy had previously been considered buoyant and in need of restraint, this was no longer the case. The south east lost 5% of its employment in the period 1989-91 compared with 3% in the UK as a whole. Fortunately, the high levels of unemployment experienced in Medway during the mid-1980s (16%) have not reoccurred and unemployment at February 1999 was 4.1%, lower than the UK average (of 4.5%). A detailed breakdown of unemployment rates and other employment issues are available in the “Medway Economic Development Strategy” 1999.

4.3.2 The demand for manufacturing and office premises is showing firm signs of improvement. The success of Gillingham Business Park, Medway City Estate and Chatham Maritime demonstrates the importance of providing good quality development sites in locations that are generally highly accessible. The construction of the Medway Towns Northern Relief Road has further heightened the perception of the area as a development location. The area’s inclusion within Thames Gateway, increasing links with Europe resulting from the Channel Tunnel and a reduction in trade barriers are becoming more important considerations. Given increased accessibility to Medway, the issue in economic development is not one of location but of the continuing need to improve both the environment and the image of the area and to overcome development constraints on sites in order to continue regeneration.

4.3.3 The council is aware of the importance of maintaining a supply of good quality sites in accessible locations, with an attractive environment. This has been particularly important in attracting high technology, research and development companies to Medway. The supply of such sites has diminished with their successful development over the last decade. This, coupled with the loss of land previously utilised for employment purposes to other uses, and the low quality of some remaining sites has made it necessary to consider further designations. These have been made to ensure that the supply of quality sites remains at a level that can meet the needs of the existing local economy and continues to encourage new companies to consider Medway as a prime location for business. The allocation of these additional sites is not considered to be strategically significant but will bring much greater flexibility to the plan.

4.3.4 Figure 6a summarises the employment land availability situation as at March 2000, taking account of the allocations set out later in this chapter.

Fig. 6a Employment Land Availability

Proposed Local Plan Allocations and Existing Sites

*1 The 192 ha of land at the Isle of Grain is likely to be developed for uses which will not count towards meeting the structure plan guidelines.
*2 Medway Valley Park/Morgans Timber Works is now incorporated into the Strood Waterfront Action Area, see policy S10.

4.3.5 Figure 6b measures the total estimated floorspace of completions and commitments on existing and proposed employment sites against the requirements of the Kent Structure Plan. This shows that the net provision of Class A2/B1 floorspace gives a small deficit of 10,542 sq.m., whilst B2/B8 provision represents a surplus of 19,271 sq.m. The total floorspace represents a small surplus of 8999 sq.m.

6b. Employment floorspace supply and Structure Plan requirements

4.4 Objectives

4.4.1 The strategic aim of the local plan is to stimulate and strengthen the expansion of economic activity in Medway to support the continued regeneration of the area’s economic base, improve employment opportunities for its population and reduce the need for outward commuting. Considerable progress has already been made in reducing unemployment and diversifying the local economy. However, securing further investment and employment through the maintenance and growth of existing industry and commerce, together with the attraction of further new businesses, will build upon the achievements so far and help to secure a more stable and prosperous future for the area.

4.4.2 In pursuit of this strategic aim the council will seek to fulfil the following objectives:

(i) to ensure that there is an adequate supply of good quality employment sites which will meet the needs of the area and be capable of accommodating a wide range of industrial and commercial uses;

(ii) to develop a sustainable economy that is diverse and self supporting by encouraging the development of sites for a range of uses that will provide a variety of job opportunities and reduce the need for outward commuting;

(iii) to pursue economic growth and a high quality environment in parallel, by encouraging high standards of design and landscaping;

(iv) to encourage the re-use or conversion of existing business premises where appropriate and the redevelopment of derelict and underused land to assist regeneration;

(v) to ensure employment uses are well related to physical infrastructure, housing and community facilities.

(vi) to promote Medway as one of the major tourist centres in the South East ;

(vii) to achieve better links between existing tourist attractions within the area;(viii) to support green tourism initiatives related to the area’s natural assets;

(ix) to encourage the development of new tourist accommodation;

(x) to support the improvement and development of existing and new tourist facilities;

(xi) to maintain a high quality of design in tourist facilities. 

4.5 Policies and Reasoned Justification

Existing Employment Areas

4.5.1 Priority will generally be given to the retention of existing employment uses, provided that local amenity is not jeopardised. The council will encourage the improvement of such areas to enhance both the image and efficiency of companies and the environment. The latter is particularly important to the way potential business investors perceive Medway. Their accessibility by modes of transport other than car is also important and will be encouraged. Therefore, proposals for new development and extensions which are likely to generate further employment will be permitted in the areas listed below, subject to the particular characteristics of each site. A number of existing employment areas have been developed for a variety of office, industrial and warehousing uses. Accordingly, Business Uses (Class B1) and where appropriate, general industrial uses (Class B2) and storage and distribution uses (Class B8) will be permitted on the following sites for the reasons set out:

(i) Beechings Way Industrial Estate: This comprises largely older industrial and office premises. A number of buildings have been sub-divided into industrial workshops and further engineering and manufacturing uses are present. The estate is not operating at full capacity and there is considerable potential for redevelopment. An adopted development brief seeks to strengthen the role of the site for a range of employment purposes and to maximise the development potential resulting from the construction of the adjacent Medway Towns Northern Relief Road. Future development is likely to include a range of different sized units suitable for B1, B2 and B8 uses, with particular emphasis on the opportunities to meet the needs of small businesses. Part of the site may be developed for non-employment uses (a mixed use zone) to encourage re-investment at an early date.

(ii) Chatham Port: The port deals with the handling and distribution of materials, together with some ship repairing. The continuing development of the port is covered in detail in policy ED9.

(iii) Courteney Road: Developed as a linear employment area along the A278, immediately to the east of Gillingham Business Park, the site enjoys good access to the M2. There are key engineering and manufacturing companies in this area, dealing with automotive parts and packaging. Other premises are used for distribution, wholesaling and offices. The area is fully developed, although scope may exist for selective redevelopment for Class B1, B2 and B8 purposes. Some environmental improvements are also desirable.

(iv) Firmstart Estate: The estate comprises a complex of small managed Class B1 units at Twydall. It provides training facilities and workshop premises with administrative support, if required, and is aimed at small businesses, particularly those starting up.

(v) Gads Hill/Danes Hill: Adjacent to the Medway Estuary, along the route of the Medway Towns Northern Relief Road, the site is dominated by older premises currently used for engineering purposes. The Medway Towns Northern Relief Road has greatly improved access to this area and enhanced its development potential. There is potential to develop an area for small Class B1 units adjacent to a proposed residential site. On the remainder of the site Class B1, B2 and B8 development will be permitted.

(vi) Gillingham Business Park: This is a major development, which is recognised as being amongst the finest of its kind in the South East. It contains high quality modern buildings providing accommodation for offices, research and development facilities, manufacturing, storage and distribution. A separate retail park is situated in the north-eastern corner of the business park. The site is considered suitable for B1 development and this is most likely to take the form of campus style offices.

(vii) Pier Road: This industrial area includes a development of small Class B1 units, a large chemical works and several other inappropriately located uses around Gillingham Pier. The Medway Towns Northern Relief Road has greatly improved access to the area. There is potential at Gillingham Pier to construct further small Class B1 units and to consolidate provision for small firms. Any development should have particular regard to the opportunities for environmental improvement and the potential for leisure- related activities.

(viii) Railway Street Industrial Park: This small development of medium sized light industrial units is predominantly in Class B1 use, located close to Gillingham town centre and the railway station. The estate offers modern premises for an important sector of the industrial market. There may be some potential for further Class B1 development, coupled with environmental improvements and the reconfiguration of the adjoining car and lorry park.

(ix) Formby Road: This site at Halling is currently occupied by part of the Rugby Cement works. Approximately 10 hectares is used for coal storage and could be made available for development for Class B1, B2 and B8 uses. The site has been identified in the Kent Waste Local Plan as a potential site for waste processing (including a waste to energy plant) but this designation is likely to be reviewed in the forthcoming Medway Waste Local Plan.

(x) Fort Bridgewood: This is a small site adjacent to the Rochester Airport Estate with land remaining to be developed for Class B1, B2 or B8 uses.

(xi) Frindsbury Peninsula: The peninsula, which includes the Medway City Estate, accommodates companies ranging from large owner/occupiers to small start-up businesses carrying out a wide variety of uses including storage and distribution, engineering, manufacturing, high technology, office and specialist retailing. Access has been radically improved with the completion of the Medway Towns Northern Relief Road. Land is available for development, which is considered suitable for Class B1, B2 or B8 uses.

(xii) Hopewell Drive: This small employment area near Luton contains a number of light industrial businesses. It is approached through a residential area and, in order to safeguard the amenity of the area, only Class B1 uses will be permitted. A site was developed as a business village of small units in 1996.

(xiii) Isle of Grain/Thamesport: The employment area is centred upon the former BP oil refinery. It is the location of the oil-fired Grain Power Station and the gas-fired AES Medway Power Station. BP has retained an area for oil storage, 80 hectares of land is occupied by Thamesport, a deep water terminal and container port, and an adjoining site is used by Foster Yeoman for the importation of aggregates. The area as a whole is served by a railhead and by the A228. However, substantial improvements are required to both the rail head and the A228 to enable the site to be developed to its full potential. The site is capable of accommodating port activities and large land users associated with these, in addition to uses within Use Class B1, B2 and B8. The site, however, is unsuitable for B1 office and high technology uses, as it does not meet the locational tests for such uses as set out in PPG13 “Transport”. Consequently, development within use class B1 will be permitted subject to the imposition of conditions, or planning obligations being entered into, to restrict occupants to Class B1 ( c ) light industrial uses only. It is becoming increasingly accessible with the completion of the Medway Towns Northern Relief Road and the planned dualling of the A228 between Main Road and Ropers Lane, Hoo.

(xiv) Kingsnorth: The designated existing site includes the Kingsnorth Power Station, and Kingsnorth Industrial Estate, which contains a mixture of general industries. Further development on adjacent land will be permitted for Class B1, B2 and B8 uses under Policy S12. However, in the light of the advice of PPG13 relating to accessibility of office uses, only those falling within subgroup B1 ( c ) will be permitted unless it can be demonstrated that the development makes provision for increased accessibility by means other than the private car. Specialist industrial uses will also be permitted subject to acceptable environmental standards being achieved. A higher standard of design and landscaping will be required to improve the overall image of the area.

(xv) Lordswood Industrial Estate: This estate is a light industrial area lying adjacent to a residential suburb of Chatham. It is largely complete.

(xvi) Laker Road Industrial Estate: This area is located on the northern and western periphery of Rochester Airport and contains a variety of employment uses, mainly in the B2 and B8 categories. It has capacity on two remaining sites for further development.

(xvii) Second Avenue: An old established light industrial estate, near the Luton local shopping centre. It has a few small sites available where, due to the proximity to residential properties, development will be restricted to Class B1 uses.

(xviii) Vicarage Lane, Hoo: This area contains a variety of Class B1, B2, B8 and other employment uses, some of which are incompatible with the adjoining residential area of Hoo Marina Park. In order to improve conditions for nearby residents the intensification of un-neighbourly uses will be limited, and development will be restricted to Class B1 business uses.

(xix) Rochester Airport: This extensive site lies close to the M2 in the south of the conurbation and is the location for a large research & development, assembly and manufacturing facility operated by BAE Systems. The site has the potential to become an employment centre of the highest quality and, as such, is covered by policy S11.

4.5.2 The local plan seeks to ensure that sufficient land is identified to enable a variety of employment opportunities to come forward. It also aims to limit the release of fresh land for development outside the urban area. The council will seek to retain appropriate existing sites for employment use. More specifically, given the scale and nature of provision made here and elsewhere in the plan, the council sees no case for retailing and leisure development to be allowed on land identified for business, industrial or warehousing uses.  

POLICY ED1: EXISTING EMPLOYMENT AREAS

In the following Employment Areas, as defined on the proposals map, development will be permitted only for :

(A) Business (Class B1) development at:

(i) Firmstart Estate, Twydall

(ii) Second Avenue, Luton

(iii) Vicarage Lane, Hoo.

(B) Business (Class B1), general industry (Class B2) and storage and distribution (Class B8) at :

(i) Courteney Road, Gillingham

(ii) Gads Hill/Danes Hill, Gillingham

(iii) Gillingham Business Park

(iv) Pier Road, Gillingham

(v) Railway Street Industrial Park, Gillingham

(vi) Formby Road, Halling

(vii) Fort Bridgewood, Chatham

(viii) Frindsbury Peninsula

(ix) Kingsnorth

(x) Laker Road Industrial Estate

(xi) Rochester Airfield

(xii) Lordswood Industrial Estate

(xiii) Beechings Way (excluding the Mixed Use Areas)

(xiv) Isle of Grain/Thamesport

(xv) Hopewell Drive, Luton

(C) General Industry (Class B2) and storage and distribution (Class B8) at :

(i) Chatham Port.

(D) Business (Class B1) and general industry (Class B2) at:

(i) Former Depot, Otterham Quay Lane.

Proposals for development on the above sites resulting in the loss of existing industrial, business or storage and distribution development to other uses will not be permitted.

Employment in Action Areas and Mixed Use Areas.

4.5.3 Certain key areas have been designated strategically as Action Areas. This is due to their scale, location and their influence upon regeneration generally. These areas are primarily existing employment areas, where the council intends to promote large scale improvement which could include a variety of uses. Within the Rochester Riverside and Strood Waterfront Action Areas, the degree of employment to be retained and developed within each area will vary significantly.

4.5.4 In the Rochester Riverside area, most of the existing employment sites will be replaced, with the exception of the Castle View Business Park. At Strood Waterfront the area to be retained will be determined in conjunction with local companies through the preparation of the Action Area Plan, but is likely to be substantial. In advance of the Action Area Plan being prepared the council will grant planning permission for employment uses providing it can be demonstrated that the comprehensive development of the area would not be compromised. 

POLICY ED2: EMPLOYMENT IN ACTION AREAS AND MIXED USE AREAS

Development will be permitted for :

(i) Business (Class B1a) within the Chatham Maritime Mixed Use Area.

(ii) Business (Class B1) and General Industry (Class B2) in the Rochester Riverside Action Area;

(iii) Business use (B1), general industry (Class B2) and storage and distribution uses (Class B8) within the Strood Waterfront Action Area.

The location and extent of development will be determined in the development briefs to be approved by the council for each Action Area.

Development in advance of the preparation of the briefs will be permitted providing the comprehensive development of each area would not be compromised.

Other Employment Sites

4.5.5 Although a large amount of industrial and commercial floorspace within Medway is concentrated on the identified Employment Areas, there are also many firms that lie outside them. Such firms may often be in residential areas or countryside. In many cases these firms do not cause any amenity problems to their neighbours. However, there are also sites which by reason of their age, impact on local amenity, physical constraints, or poor infrastructure are less suited to modern employment uses. In these cases, provided a suitable alternative site can be found for the relocation of existing firms, it would be appropriate to consider redevelopment for other uses to facilitate an improvement in local amenity and the environment of the area. Within the urban area the preferred form of redevelopment is likely to be housing. A number of such sites have been identified and allocated for other uses elsewhere in the local plan.

4.5.6 On acceptable sites a general policy will allow for the alteration or extension or redevelopment of such premises. Proposals for redevelopment will be limited to light industrial or office uses, except where it can be demonstrated that the site is suitable for other types of employment use that can be accommodated without detriment to residential amenity.

4.5.7 A number of employment sites are situated in the countryside. These include Otterham Quay, Cliffe Chalk Pits, Cliffe Oil Storage Depot, Fenn Corner and Elm Court off Capstone Road. They are all characterised by having large areas of storage, parking or undeveloped land, and many have a detrimental impact on the visual environment and on local roads. Additional development could result in further detriment to the visual amenity of the rural area and an undesirable increase in traffic on rural roads. Where development is proposed, the council will seek practical improvements to visual amenity and/or traffic conditions where appropriate and will consider the preparation of development briefs to guide this process. 

POLICY ED3: OTHER EMPLOYMENT SITES

On existing employment sites not identified in policies ED1 and ED2, proposals for the alteration, extension or replacement of existing premises will be permitted where they are not detrimental to local amenity. Redevelopment will be restricted to business (Class B1) uses except where it can be demonstrated that other types of employment use can be accommodated without detriment to residential amenity.

Within the rural area, extensions to, or alterations to, premises on existing employment sites will not be permitted where :

(i) There would be an addition of 10% or more to the built footprint; and/or

(ii) Visual amenity is not improved; and/or

(iii) Traffic volumes would increase on nearby roads.

Elm Court

4.5.8 The Elm Court estate is situated on high ground in the Capstone Area of Local Landscape Importance. It is surrounded by an attractive tract of countryside, which maintains the separation between the built-up areas of Lordswood and Hempstead. The estate incorporates a number of small-scale industrial and commercial uses, together with a large garden centre and another retail unit. The buildings are an unattractive intrusion, which detracts from the character of the area.

4.5.9 The council considers the site inappropriate for employment uses and further intensification of the uses on the site will be resisted. Planning permissions have been granted in the past only in exceptional circumstances, against the background of the defined area of landscape value. The council will seek to protect and retain the Capstone Area of Local Landscape Importance. Therefore, only minimal development with high standards of landscaping, which would enhance the appearance and character of the area as a whole, will be allowed within the built-up area of Elm Court.  

POLICY ED4: ELM COURT

Proposals for the intensification of existing uses within the Elm Court estate, as defined on the proposals map, will not be permitted. Minor alterations or extensions to existing buildings, or the replacement of an existing building within the confines of the estate will be permitted provided:

(i) the form, mass and general design of the development is in keeping with the surrounding countryside; and

(ii) there is a high standard of landscaping; and

(iii) a Master Plan for the site is submitted illustrating how the development relates to the estate as a whole.

New Employment Areas

4.5.10 It is important to maintain a range of employment sites to cater for the expansion of existing companies and to provide attractive opportunities for new business investors. Consequently, land is allocated for new employment areas capable of accommodating business, general industry and warehousing uses. In making these allocations it is recognised that certain uses will demand a particular type of site and location.

4.5.11 There is a need to cater for further business development including office services, high technology, research and development that cannot be satisfactorily accommodated in town centres. The latter may include an element of light industry, but typically these uses will require premises with a high office content and often demand sites that are attractive in terms of design, layout and landscaping. Accordingly, sites for Class B1 development on land to the south-west of Gillingham Business Park and the former depot at Otterham Quay Lane are allocated.

4.5.12 The area has attracted new manufacturing and engineering uses falling into the light industry or general industry categories. In some instances these uses may also be suited to a business park location, but they are more likely to require a modern industrial estate, e.g. Medway City Estate on the Frindsbury Peninsula. There is likely to be further demand for warehousing and distribution development. Where such uses serve local retail centres they should be appropriately located on sites within the urban area such as the Medway City Estate.

4.5.13 Of the undeveloped area at Kingsnorth, a significant area has been safeguarded for landscaping and nature conservation protection. This leaves approximately 66 hectares available for development. Development at Kingsnorth (which is dealt with in policy S12) will be subject to improvements to the local highway and rail networks, and should not be detrimental to the environmental importance of the Medway Estuary Marshes. This site is capable of accommodating uses in Classes B1, B2 & B8. However, in the light of the advice of PPG13, only those uses falling within Class B1 ( c ) will be permitted unless it can be demonstrated that the development makes provision for increased accessibility by means other than private car. Such provision may take the form of contributions to public transport, the use of parking regimes and company transport plans. In appropriate cases, the provision will be sought by means of a planning obligation. Development in Class B1 which makes inadequate provision for increased accessibility will be restricted, by the imposition of conditions or by planning obligation, to Class B1 ( c ).

4.5.14 Other uses which serve a regional market or which require a large land area and generate low levels of employment are better suited to sites further away from the urban area. In this respect the Isle of Grain has been identified as a future location for these uses subject to improvements in highway and rail infrastructure. The presence of the Thamesport deep water terminal also makes the Isle of Grain suitable for port related industries. Approximately 192 hectares of land is available for employment development. Policy S13 details the requirements that Grain/Thamesport will generate.

4.5.15 Grain is capable of accommodating port activities and large land-users associated with these. In conformity with policy P8 of the Kent Structure Plan, it is an objective to expand the capacity of the deep water terminal. The site is also suitable for uses in classes B1, B2 and B8. However, the Isle of Grain is unsuitable for B1 office or high technology uses, as it does not meet the locational tests for such uses set out in PPG13 “Transport”. Consequently, development within Use Class B1 will be permitted subject to the imposition of conditions or planning obligations being entered into, to restrict occupants to Class B1 ( c ) light industrial uses only. Major development at the Isle of Grain will be subject to the improvement of the A228 and the Grain to Hoo Junction rail line for which contributions from developers will be sought. 

POLICY ED5: PROPOSED EMPLOYMENT AREAS

The following sites, as defined on the proposals map, are allocated for development for the use classes specified :

(A) Business (Class B1) development at :

(i) Gillingham Business Park (land to south of Bailey Drive);

(B) Business (Class B1), general industry (Class B2) and storage and distribution (Class B8) development at :

(i) Kingsnorth, subject to policy S12.

(ii) Isle of Grain/Thamesport, subject to policy S13

(iii) Rochester Airfield (25 hectares)

Small Firms

4.5.16 Small units have played an important role in assisting the development of new and existing companies over the last decade. There continues to be a strong demand for small units whether managed by the council in partnership with the local Enterprise Agency, such as the Pier Road Estate and Firmstart, or as part of private sector developments like Neptune Business Park on the Medway City Estate. The council will, therefore, support the provision of further small units on new and existing employment areas. At the same time it is recognised that small units can amalgamate without requiring planning permission. The council will endeavour to retain small unit complexes that have been purpose-built for start-up firms. Where planning permission is required for the redevelopment of such sites, permission will be refused if the proposals would lead to the loss of the small units and their replacement by larger units. The refurbishment of small units will be acceptable. 

POLICY ED6: SMALL BUSINESS COMPLEXES

Redevelopment leading to the loss of small business unit complexes in existing and proposed Employment Areas, as defined on the proposals map, will not be permitted.

Special Industrial Uses

4.5.17 The general industry class (Class B2) now includes the so-called “noxious” industrial uses, which were formerly part of the Special Industrial Use Classes (B3-B7). These uses had to be registered under the Alkali etc Works Regulation Act 1906, and can generally be described as chemical operations that may produce emissions in to the environment or are otherwise considered offensive. The 1906 Act has now been superseded by the Environmental Protection Act, 1990 and such uses now have to be authorised. Appendix 5, lists the main categories of use set out in Regulations made under the Act, for which authorisation is required. Such uses are frequently subject to safeguarding measures and it is preferable for development to be located away from residential areas. The scope for accommodating further such development within the urban area is limited.

4.5.18 Part of the sites at Kingsnorth and Grain, which are relatively remote from residences, could be used for this purpose, but not to such an extent that it undermines the strategic role of the sites as set out in policies S12 and S13. Consequently, the council will only consider such uses against a stringent environmental standard as required in policies BNE2, BNE3, BNE23 and BNE24 and the constraints imposed by the Notifiable Installation described in appendix 4. Development at both sites will also depend on improvements to the local highway and rail networks being secured as stated in policies S12 and S13, and the council being satisfied that there would be no adverse impact on the environment or on residential amenity. In view of the special locational requirements, such uses will not be granted planning permission elsewhere in the local plan area. 

POLICY ED7: SPECIAL INDUSTRIAL USES

The development of special industrial uses will only be permitted at Kingsnorth and Grain, as defined on the proposals map, subject to the provisions of policies BNE2, BNE3, BNE23 and BNE 24 and securing the transport infrastructure improvements specified in policies S12 and S13.

Industrial Uses not in a Use Class

4.5.19 There are other industrial uses which do not readily fit within any class of the Use Classes Order and which are described as “sui generis” uses. For example, this would include uses such as scrap yards, car body repairers, haulage and plant depots. These uses are also sometimes described as being non-conforming uses. It is often difficult for such uses to find suitable sites largely because they can cause noise disturbance, nuisance and annoyance to residential neighbourhoods or a wider area. However, the council recognises that these uses can contribute to the diversity of employment and provide important services to the local community. Provision should, therefore, be made for the location or relocation of such uses where they are inappropriately sited.

4.5.20 The council has identified two sites that could fulfil such a role, although the precise nature and scale of any proposed development will need to be individually assessed. The sites comprise the land already identified at Kingsnorth and Grain as new employment areas. In respect of these sites any acceptable proposals will need to have regard to the amenity of nearby residential properties including visual impact, as stated in policy BNE2, the scientific interest of the adjoining areas of national and international nature conservation importance and the character of the surrounding rural area. 

POLICY ED8: INDUSTRIAL USES NOT IN A USE CLASS

The development of industrial uses not in a use class will be permitted at Kingsnorth and the Isle of Grain, as defined on the proposals map, subject to the provisions of policy BNE2 and there being no adverse environmental impact, especially in terms of residential amenity, nature conservation interests or the character of the surrounding rural area.

Chatham Port

4.5.21 The Mersey Docks and Harbour Company owns the commercial port which covers an area of approximately 58.7 hectares of the former Chatham Naval Dockyard and includes Basin No.3, which has access to the River Medway. Vehicular access to the site is directly off the Medway Towns Northern Relief Road. Since its establishment in 1984 the port has significantly increased the volume of traffic that it handles, although expansion was limited by the restricted nature of the access arrangements to the site prior to the recent completion of the Relief Road. The port is best known for the handling of timber and paper related products, but also offers ship repairing facilities.

4.5.22 The owners have expressed their interest in expanding the port operation and further developing facilities. The spare capacity that currently exists could be used to accommodate cargo-handling capacity that is lost as a result of changes further upstream. The council will support the continued operation and future expansion of the port operation at Chatham. In doing so, it is recognised that additional berth facilities will be required. These additional facilities will provide capacity for relocated wharf operations displaced elsewhere along the river. The council will encourage the increased movement of freight by rail from the port, utilising the port’s branch line (see also the transportation chapter). 

POLICY ED9: CHATHAM PORT

Port related development and an expansion of the commercial port at Chatham, as defined on the proposals map, will be permitted subject to the provisions of policy T7 and the enhancement of the setting of the Medway Towns Northern Relief Road.

Working From Home

4.5.23 A variety of business activities can be undertaken from home without the need to apply for planning permission provided that the activities remain ancillary to, and do not involve material alterations to, the residential character of the property. The close juxtaposition of work and home can reduce car use and is therefore environmentally sustainable, particularly with the growth in tele-working. However, an intensification of what initially was considered an acceptable use can, over time, make it unacceptable due to its impact on neighbouring residential properties or for highways reasons. Generally, businesses operating from home should not be seen as long-term propositions if the intention is to expand. The council, whilst not wishing to limit the opportunities for private enterprise and acknowledging the benefits to sustainable development of working from home, will act to protect residential amenity.  

POLICY ED10: WORKING FROM HOME

The establishment of businesses operating from the applicant’s residence will be permitted provided that it can be demonstrated that there would not be any :

(i) detrimental effect on residential amenity by way of dust, noise, smell or other emissions; and

(ii) additional traffic flows and vehicle parking which would be harmful to residential amenity or road safety; and

(iii) erosion of the residential character of the area.

Existing Tourist Attractions and Facilities

4.5.24 A significant proportion of tourist visits to Medway are to the historic centre of Rochester or to see some of the other attractions around the urban area including the Historic Dockyard, Fort Amherst and the Royal Engineers Museum. In order to ensure that interest in the area is not lost, it is essential that existing attractions are retained and protected from inappropriate development in the vicinity. The successful promotion of such attractions is also dependent on the provision of appropriate infrastructure and complementary facilities such as coach and car parking, sign posting, visitor centres, public conveniences and public seating.  

POLICY ED11: EXISTING TOURIST FACILITIES

Development that would be detrimental to, or result in the loss of, existing tourist attractions and facilities will not be permitted.

New Tourist Attractions and Facilities

4.5.25 The council recognises the valuable contribution that new tourist attractions and facilities can make to the local economy and will, therefore, support such development in appropriate locations. The potential for a particular area or site to accommodate such development will depend on the proposed use, the capacity of the site to absorb it and its impact on the surrounding area. Care must be taken to ensure that proposals do not undermine the local environment or harm the quality of life of residents. At the same time, the provision of carefully managed attractions and facilities can help to support conservation interests by providing new uses for historic buildings.

4.5.26 The same philosophy can be applied to proposals outside of the urban area. For example, the North Kent Marshes Study has identified the opportunity to promote a better understanding of the Medway Marshes and its nature conservation interest through tourism. There is substantial scope to capitalise on the wildlife aspect of the area to complement the attractions within the urban area.

4.5.27 In developing proposals, consideration should be given to the opportunities that exist for linkages with other attractions and facilities, for example, between Chatham Maritime and the Historic Dockyard. 

POLICY ED12: NEW TOURIST FACILITIES

The development of new tourist attractions and facilities will be permitted, particularly at the following sites defined on the proposals map :

(i) Rochester Riverside Action Area (see policy S7);

(ii) Chatham Maritime (South of Basin 1. Mixed Use Zone - see policy S8);

(iii) Chatham Historic Dockyard (see policy S9);

(iv) Bloors Wharf, Gillingham.

Hotels

4.5.28 In order to assist the continued development of tourism in Medway, it is important to provide a full range of serviced accommodation to meet the needs of visitors, whether visiting for business or leisure purposes. Existing hotel provision is relatively limited in type, size and quality. The council is keen to reverse this position and to attract major hotel operators in order to promote the image of Medway as a business and tourist centre. Two sites for small hotels already have planning permission at Will Adams Way in Gillingham and at Beechings Way as part of a small mixed-use proposal.

4.5.29 There is considerable scope for additional hotel bedspaces, catering for both short stay visitors and business users. There is also scope for exhibition and conference facilities in the area. Hotels can make a positive contribution to urban regeneration and - in support of sustainable development and the sequential test - should be located in, or on the edge of, town centres. There is an opportunity for a hotel to be located in Chatham as the “city” centre for Medway. The council also considers that a further hotel would be appropriate on the Rochester Riverside, as part of the master plan for the area. Finally, hotel facilities will be appropriate at Chatham Maritime (south of Basin 1) if developed in conjunction with a major visitor attraction. 

POLICY ED13: HOTELS

The development of hotels and associated facilities will be permitted in the following locations:

(i) within, or on the edge of, Chatham town centre;(ii) within the Rochester Riverside Action Area;

(iii) on Land South of Basin 1, Chatham Maritime, in conjunction with a major visitor attraction.
Proposals for additional hotel facilities in other locations will be permitted provided;

(iv) they are well related to Strood, Rochester, Gillingham or Rainham town centres; or

(v) they would positively contribute to the regeneration and renewal of a larger site or area within the defined urban boundary.

Bed and Breakfast Accommodation and Guest Houses

4.5.30 Small scale accommodation such as bed and breakfast establishments and guest houses make an important contribution to the range of tourist accommodation and the number of available bed spaces. The local plan seeks to encourage the provision of such accommodation as part of the process of promoting the growth of tourism, subject to proposals having no adverse affect on local amenity. Planning permission will not always be required for such accommodation, where it is provided on a small scale within a dwelling house. However, for all proposals where permission is required, the council will have regard to the size and location of the property in assessing the impact of the proposal on amenity. Particular regard will be given to whether the property is located in an area where increased traffic activity would be detrimental to local amenity and whether the property has adequate off-street parking or there are on-street parking spaces available. 

POLICY ED14: BED AND BREAKFAST ACCOMMODATION AND GUEST HOUSES

Bed and breakfast or guest house accommodation will be permitted providing there are no adverse affects on amenity, especially with regard to traffic and parking provision.

Self Catering and Caravan and Camping Sites

4.5.31 The council is aware of the importance of other types of accommodation, namely self-catering and touring caravan and camping sites. Self-catering facilities include chalets, permanent caravans or buildings converted specifically for this purpose such as farm buildings. Self-catering holidays have become increasingly popular in recent years. The opportunities for increasing the provision of self-catering accommodation are, however, fairly limited. There is an established chalet and caravan park at Allhallows-on-Sea, situated on the Hoo Peninsula overlooking the Thames Estuary. Sites for touring caravans and camping are also very limited, with only one recognised site at Woolmans Wood close to Rochester Airport. However, this site has a relatively poor environment due to motorway and aircraft noise. In 1996, a youth hostel opened in converted farm buildings close to Capstone Country Park. This has given a significant boost to the provision of low cost accommodation, especially for young people visiting the area.

4.5.32 There is a need for additional facilities to take advantage of Medway’s strategic location between London and Europe. Such facilities need to be sensitively developed to avoid conflict with their surroundings. In considering proposals, regard will be given to their compatibility with existing uses in the area and the scope for integration with the surrounding landscape. 

POLICY ED15: SELF-CATERING ACCOMMODATION

With the exception of Woolmans Wood caravan park, proposals which would result in the loss of existing self-catering tourist accommodation or touring caravan and camping sites will not be permitted, unless there is a proposal to relocate within the locality.

Proposals for new facilities will be permitted provided it can be demonstrated that :

(i) the scale of development would not adversely affect local amenity, nature conservation interests or be an intrusive element in the surrounding landscape; and

(ii) the local highway network is capable of supporting the scale of development proposed; and

(iii) the facilities associated with the development are of a design and scale in keeping with the locality.

Walking and Cycling

4.5.33 The varied landscapes of Medway (from the North Downs to the Medway Marshes) make it an attractive place for walkers and cyclists including those passing through the area on holiday. Interest in the latter has been further stimulated by the new youth hostel at Capstone Farm.

4.5.34 There are three important long distance footpaths in the form of the North Downs Way, the Pilgrims Way and the Saxon Shore Way. The council will seek to improve the signage of these footpaths and encourage the provision of better links within the wider footpath network. The council has produced circular walk guides for the Hoo Peninsula, Cuxton and Halling.

4.5.35 For cyclists travelling through the area, its attractiveness is often marred by the dangers that they face from traffic on key routes such as the A2, and the lack of dedicated cycle routes. The council will seek the provision of safer and more appropriate cycle routes throughout the area, and will raise awareness of these routes through tourist initiatives. These include support for the work being done by Sustrans to develop the Inverness to Dover national cycle route which passes through the area. The issues relating to walking and cycling are discussed in more detail in the transportation chapter.

4.5.36 The current and potential cycle and walking routes, and in particular the areas of high landscape quality through which they pass, represent a potentially significant tourism resource which could appeal to a wide range of visitors. Small-scale facilities, including overnight accommodation and refreshment stops, would add significantly to their attraction. However, proposals must be sensitive to their location and should embody high design standards. 

POLICY ED16: TOURIST FACILITIES FOR WALKERS AND CYCLISTS

Small-scale tourist facilities to meet the needs of walkers and cyclists, including refreshment stops and overnight accommodation, will be permitted. These should be complementary to the surrounding area and well related to long distance footpaths or cycleways.  

4.6 Environmental Appraisal

4.6.1 In accordance with the guidance contained at paragraphs 4.16 to 4.22 of PPG12 “Development Plans” the policies in this chapter have been subject to environmental appraisal.

4.6.2 The policies protect existing businesses and assist the development of further employment opportunities. They encourage the reuse of brownfield sites and restrict inappropriate out of centre development, whilst encouraging mixed land uses. Overall the policies serve to reduce the need to travel and protect open space and the countryside.

4.6.3 Industrial uses inappropriate to the urban area are directed to Kingsnorth. This is sustainable in that it concentrates these industries to one area, rather than being dispersed throughout Medway. The advantages of utilising Kingsnorth in this manner are considered to outweigh the negative aspects of its relative isolation.

4.6.4 With regards to tourism, the policies encourage the use of sustainable forms of transport, and facilitate access to such forms of transport. Existing tourist facilities are protected while new tourist facilities, which serve to boost the local economy, are promoted only when they are accessible to sustainable forms of transport and serve to enhance the area.  

4.7 Monitoring Measures

4.7.1 The performance of the Plan in meeting its aims with regard to economic development will be judged against the following criteria :

(i) The take-up of allocations and commitments against the structure plan requirement;

(ii) The quality of employment sites available in the area and the range and amount of industrial and commercial uses that are being developed;

(iii) The volume of employment land and floorspace lost to other uses;

(iv) The level of unemployment;

(v) The location of new tourist attractions and their relationship with existing attractions;

(vi) The numbers of new tourist bed spaces in hotels, holiday sites and guest houses.