Issue - meetings

The Interim Director for the Local Plan Review introduced the report and outlined the impact of changes in demand on the town centre and other town centres around the country. The development of the Town Centre Strategy was an opportunity to address these pressures and challenges and also to make the town centre more environmentally attractive and to ensure the town centre space is used effectively.

The Head of Regeneration and Economic Development added that there had been significant changes in town centre patterns nationally. It was critical to have strong leadership and stakeholder engagement, as well as a transformative approach to the identity of the town centre.

The Committee felt that the River Medway should play an important role in the identity of the town and provided a sense of place, as well as the wealth of heritage within the town centre. It was proposed that a focus group of Members was formed to explore transformation ideas and the identity of the town centre.

It was felt that sustainability and transportation links were key considerations as well as usable open space for residents. Cross-party agreement was vital as the strategy would take a considerable time to implement, and so would need full support by all groups.

The Interim Director for the Local Plan Review added that creating a journey through the town centre would increase dwell time which would positively impact on local businesses, and agreed the importance of creating a sense of place for town centre residents, wider borough residents and visitors to Maidstone.

RESOLVED: That the feedback arising from the discussion on the report be used to inform a further report to the Policy and Resources Committee with a more specific proposal on the scope and timing of the Town Centre Strategy.

Note: Councillor Forecast joined the meeting during this item.