A disused gas works could be transformed into hundreds of new homes and pave the way for the relocation of a “much-loved” 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 would completely redevelop the site and create the homes across eight blocks, as well as the construction of a 140-room retirement living complex and a new supermarket.

Proposals, submitted to Medway Council, also show a SGN facility, commercial and office units, and discuss the relocation of the Segas Sailing Club to a new clubhouse.

The sailing club, which currently occupies part of the wider site, could be relocated to just outside the boundary of the gas works. Blueberry Developments would build a new facility housing both the sailing club and Medway Water Sports.

The planning application follows a long-standing collaborative working arrangement between the developer, the local authority and the club.

And while the sailing club will not remain on the original site, it will move next door to the current home of Medway Water Sports Trust, a local charity that provides access to all forms of water-based activities.

Blueberry Developments have also agreed to allowing Segas Sailing Club continued access and sole use of the creek for the life of the club together with additional support to develop its moorings by way of pontoons and a new storage compound to be sited nearby.

John Molloy, a spokesperson for the club, said: “Blueberry Homes have given firm undertakings to the club and local authority that they can and will deliver on these proposals and as such they 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.”

He added the club is grateful for the support of local ward councillors Adam Price and Lia Mandaracas and Gillingham and Rainham MP Naushabah Khan.

The 11-acre plot also 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.

In January, the Ramsgate-based developer put draft versions of its plans out for a public consultation.

Feedback showed concerns about the impact of new residents on the road network, and the risk of increased congestion and reduced safety.

It also highlighted a demand for a mix of housing sizes in order to widen the offering to meet the needs of the community and also said while retail and commercial units were good, units for a dentist or GP surgery would be more welcomed.

Locals also told Blueberry they prize the sailing club and want it protected, and there should be collaboration to enable a smooth transition for it from its current location to the new one.

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

If approved, the project would be worked through in three stages, with the supermarket and SGN facility, closest to Pier Road, being constructed first.

The second phase would be the erection of the retirement living complex, before the final stage to build the flats and commercial units.

A spokesperson for Blueberry Developments Estates, 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.

“We have worked hard with a range of stakeholders to get to this point and look forward to a positive outcome in the coming months.”

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The plans are being considered by Medway Council’s planning department and responses from residents can be submitted on the planning portal.