The need for Fastrack is intrinsically linked with major regeneration of the area that is already happening and will accelerate over the next 12 months or so.

The story of Kent Thameside can be traced back to:

• The publication of Government regional planning guidance in 1995 (Thames Gateway Planning Framework Regional Planning Guidance RPG9a). The Thames Gateway became a national focal point for regeneration and growth, and Kent Thameside in particular was identified as 'a growth area of regional significance'.
• the original Kent Thameside Vision document "Looking to the Future", published in Autumn 1995, which set out a long-term vision for the regeneration of the area.

A bold strategy for sustainable mixed-used development set in a high quality environment and integrated with existing communities was proposed for Kent Thameside. Although the strategy has been under continuous development and refinement since first published, the fundamentals have stood the test of time and continue to inspire and drive regeneration and development across Kent Thameside. The key components of the strategy can be summarised as:

• Build up to 30,000 new homes
• Achieve a significant shift from car use to use public transport
• Create an extensive framework of attractive open spaces
• Develop sustainable communities
• Promote town centre renaissance
• Deliver up to 50,000 new job opportunities
• Develop over 15 million square feet of new commercial buildings
• Achieve the highest quality standards
• Embrace 'Life-Long Learning'

More recently planned regeneration throughout the Thames Gateway has received a major boost through the Government’s 'Sustainable Communities: Building For the Future' action plan which was published by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in February 2003. As a result a new body, the Kent Thameside Delivery Board has been formed to bring together public and private sector interests to drive forward regeneration projects including Fastrack.

Visit the Kent Thameside website for more information about Kent Thameside and the Delivery Board
(Link opens in a new window).