Successful referendum!

On 2 May 2024, our Neighbourhood Plan was put to a referendum alongside the Police and Crime Commissioner election. For our plan to be approved, we needed a vote of over 50%. Residents within our boundary were asked a simple question: Do they want Medway Council to use the Neighbourhood Plan to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?

After an incredibly busy campaign, during which we hand-signed thousands of letters and spoke to hundreds of residents, we are thrilled to announce that our plan received an overwhelming YES majority of 88%.

Following the referendum, Medway Council unanimously adopted the plan at its Annual Council Meeting on 15 May.

Speaking at the meeting Cllr Simon Curry, portfolio holder for climate change and strategic regeneration, said:

“It’s easily the best Neighbourhood Plan I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen quite a few over the years. This is a really successful example of co-production and the whole of the Arches community will benefit from this plan.”

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has joined us on this journey, from those who attended our initial consultation events to those who helped in the hectic days leading up to the referendum. Thanks to your efforts, we have successfully delivered Kent’s first urban Neighbourhood Plan.

Our work is far from over, and with the plan now adopted, a new chapter begins – implementing it. If you’re interested in joining a group of likeminded local people, please visit the join us page.