Regeneration
The proposals would:
Provide new homes
Dartford’s population is projected increase from around 90,000 to129,000. To accommodate this increase, the Council plans to deliver 17,340 new homes throughout the Borough by 2026.
The scheme would provide up to 1000 new homes, meeting recognised local needs. 30 percent would be affordable providing opportunities for people to rent a new home at an affordable price or step onto the property ladder through shared ownership schemes.
Provide more things for people to do
The need for better leisure opportunities for young people and the wider community has been recognised locally for some time. The proposals would provide much needed new leisure and community uses on the fringe of the town centre.
Local people would benefit from restaurants and cafes, a community hall, a new park with playing fields and sports pitches, public squares, performance spaces and children’s play areas along with a riverside walk and pond walkway.
Boost the local economy
New restaurants, cafes, shops and other commercial uses could create anywhere between 80 to 150 new jobs with up to 100 (this figure cannot be right!) created during the construction process. A significant number of new residents in the vicinity of the town centre would increase the number of potential customers and introduce more activity throughout the day and at weekends.
Improvements to local roads, the new Fastrack bus service and new cycle and pedestrian routes would improve access to the town centre, helping to further increase footfall.
Improve the local environment
The environment would be significantly improved by replacing manufacturing buildings with high quality new residential areas and public spaces. New village squares, parks and landscaping would ensure residents experience a distinct green feel.
Once isolated and unsightly, The River Darent and Mill Pond would be cleaned and brought back to life, enabling people to enjoy the water features and local wildlife.
Creating a high quality environment in key areas around Dartford Town Centre and the train station would improve the experience for visitors, particularly from their point of arrival.
New residential and commercial buildings would be designed with all of the latest sustainable and energy saving features.