Gravesham Borough Council’s Planning Committee voted unanimously to resolve to grant planning consent for the mixed use regeneration of Albion Waterside. The project will provide an exciting new place for local people to live, work and visit. The plans will deliver 1,500 new homes around the canal basin including a mix of affordable housing as well as Later Living and build-to-rent properties.

The currently underutilised 5.5ha brownfield site, which is situated on the south bank of the River Thames, will be transformed with over 65% allocated for landscaped open space, including gardens which will be accessible to all. The regeneration will also see an extension of the existing promenade by 350m of additional riverside walkway. Overall, the proposals will deliver 4,500sqm of space for local businesses including shops, restaurants and workspaces, enabling a sustainable community where people and businesses can thrive.

Albion Waterside will offer a new mobility hub, promoting green and sustainable modes of transport to and from the site, with electric car charging points and an overprovision of cycle parking spaces and facilities.

The site was identified and allocated for regeneration as part of the Gravesend Riverside East and Northeast Gravesend Opportunity Area. Leading up to the committee, Joseph Homes and JTP carried out extensive community engagement to gain valuable feedback from local residents and businesses. As a result, the site was reconfigured to prioritise cycle routes and better access to the waterfront. A historic trail will run throughout the site, celebrating the extensive heritage of the town and the site’s maritime and industrial history will be reflected through the style and materials chosen to form the buildings and public spaces.

“This site offers huge potential to transform an underused industrial area into a thriving new riverside neighbourhood, which will re-establish old links and connections and create new ones, whilst also marking this important location on the River Thames.”