The Leisure Property Manager introduced the report, and explained that Phase I of the improvement works to the Lockmeadow leisure complex had been completed in December 2020. The Phase II developments had been presented to the Policy and Resources Committee on 10 February 2021 and consisted of three parts: create a food hall; expand the existing outside terrace; and install a children’s play area.

The Committee were informed that Kent County Council, as highways Authority, had received funding for an investigation into the traffic flows and to examine the possibility of a one-way system, on the surrounding roads. A timetable for the works would be shared with the Committee, when available.

In response to questions, the Director of Finance and Business Improvement explained that the Phase II proposals had previously been endorsed by the Committee during its October 2020 meeting, with the plans having been presented to the Policy and Resources Committee meeting for budget approval. The Committee were then presented with the developments again for their comments.

Concerns were raised regarding the amount of traffic in the local area with particular reference to Hart Street, and the road improvements necessary to the area. The speed at which the Section 106 (S106) monies had been used by the Highways Authority to carry out road improvements was questioned. It was felt that the use of S106 monies should be further considered by the Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Committee.

The Leisure Property Manager confirmed that all applicants currently being considered for the food hall were local and provided a variety of food options. A further three companies had contacted the Council, in response to an article promoting the food hall in the local press. It was proposed that the Council would choose any new tenants to the complex, to then be managed by the existing management agent.

It was explained that the results of a consultation regarding improvements to the pedestrian journey from the town centre to Archbishops Palace and the Lockmeadow complex were expected imminently and would be fed back to the Committee.

RESOLVED: That

1.  The proposals for the improvement works be noted alongside the comments provided;

2.  Officers request that Kent County Council, as highways authority, prioritise the proposed works at Hart Street and request that the item be considered during the next meeting of the Maidstone Joint Transportation Board;

3.  Additional improvements to the riverside landscape between the Lockmeadow complex and Maidstone Bridge and the underpass, be considered; and

4.  The Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Committee be requested to review the slowness and reluctance in dealing with the Section 106 monies associated with McDonalds planning approval.