Councillors from the Medway Labour and Co-operative Group have raised concerns about the insufficient amount of public consultation regarding the redevelopment currently being carried out at the Paddock in Chatham.

Cllr Simon Curry, Medway Labour and Co-operative Group Spokesperson for Regeneration, Culture and the Environment said: 

“We feel that the Council should have gone through the formal planning process for the redevelopment of this iconic area of Chatham. The Paddock is the main open space for the local community, it is a vital “green lung” in the centre of Chatham, and they should have a proper say in its future.

“Local Labour and Co-operative Group Councillors are happy to work with the Council team responsible for this redevelopment to make sure the local community have their say.”

Cllr Vince Maple, Leader of the Medway Labour and Co-operative Group and member for Chatham Central added: 

“The location of the Paddock is right in the heart of Chatham, and any redevelopment works should be undertaken following a proper consultation process with the public. As things stand we are not satisfied that enough has been done to take into account the views of our local community.”