Superstore and 500 flats approved at gasworks site

Proposals for hundreds of flats, retirement homes and a supermarket have received unanimous approval.

Medway Council's planning committee gave Blueberry Developments Estates the go-ahead for its plans on the former SGN gasworks near The Strand, Gillingham.

The proposals for the plot off Pier Road would see the removal of the landmark blue gasometer and include 500 apartments across seven blocks, plus a block for 140 retirement-living apartments or a 140-bed care home.

The developer is also building a 20,000 sq ft (1,858 sqm) supermarket, 16,000 sq ft (1,486 sqm) of commercial space and an SGN training office and depot.

North Gillingham ward councillor Adam Price said he was in favour of the development as extra homes and later living accommodation were needed.

"That is, as long as - and this is the main point - we can secure residents' continued access to the River Medway through Segas Sailing Club and Medway Watersports," he added.

Some residents objected to the plans, with complaints including the impact on local services, the development being too dense and the height of the buildings, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The council said developer contributions totalled £480,000 with £167,000 to refurbish The Strand Lido, £79,000 to enhance open spaces in the area and upgrades to the new bus shelter in Pier Road.

The council said although there were limited developer contributions, it included a clause so when 90% of the properties were sold a review is carried out of the profit made by Blueberry compared to how much it currently estimates.

The local authority added half of any profit over the amount expected would be clawed back by the council and used towards other projects.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.