Gills: Docks plan will kick our hopes into touch
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Chatham Docks is the
potential site for a major redevelopment, including homes and a
superstore
by Jenni Horn
Gillingham Football Club has opposed a £650 million project
to transform Chatham Docks, fearing it could put an end to its
dream to relocate to a new ground.
A decision on ambitious plans that would create a hub of
homes, shops and businesses, as well as 3,000 new jobs, is expected
to be made next month.
The site for the proposed scheme had previously been earmarked
as a potential spot for the Gills’ relocation.
A representative for the club has written to Medway
Council to formally oppose the application, on the grounds that it
would “sterilise” any opportunities for the club to relocate within
Medway.
The proposed scheme - dubbed Chatham Waters - includes a
hotel with 200 bedrooms, 475 student apartments and up to 950 flats
and houses, as well as an Asda superstore offices, other shops and
a conference centre.
Gillingham FC needs to create similar facilities to finance a
new stadium that would not burden it with debt.
The club’s letter to Medway Council said: “We are mindful that
our representations could be considered to be a reaction to the
fact that Gillingham Football Club has been excluded from the
Chatham Docks proposals, but that is simply not the case.
“It is not that Gillingham Football Club have been excluded, it
is that their own future aspirations have been potentially rendered
undeliverable by virtue of the fact that this particular scheme
appears to involve all the potential enabling development that the
football club had presented as necessary and appropriate for its
own relocation.”
Plans for Gillingham FC to move from its current home in Redfern
Avenue have been in the pipeline for many years. Chatham Docks is
thought to be among a number of locations considered by the club,
as well as Cuxton and Gravesham. 
Priestfield Stadium is in
Redfern Avenue, Gillingham
The letter to Medway Council representing the club has been
written by John Collins, a director of DHA Planning. The
Maidstone-based firm is involved in numerous projects in Medway
including the redevelopment of the former Rochester police station
and building work at Brompton Academy and the Bishop of Rochester
Academy.
A number of other organisations have also opposed the Chatham
Waters development, including Chatham Maritime Trust, Kent
Wildfowling and Conservation Association and South East Marine
Association.
Kent Fire and Rescue and The Highways Agency have also raised
questions about the plans and dozens of locals residents have
objected.
A decision on the application has been delayed until March after
Medway Council asked for more information.
Friday, February 24 2012
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