THREE local authorities are linking up to launch a new planning service.

Medway, Swale and Gravesham Councils are setting up a new partnership known as STG (South Thames Gateway).

It will be provide building control services across the three areas - the first of its kind within Kent.

The official launch of the South Thames Gateway building control partnership will take place on Monday, October 1 at

Canterbury Christ Church University at Medway, Chatham Maritime.

The partnership will ensure that existing and new buildings conform to current regulations, including those affecting health and safety.

The service will be marketed to commercial developers, house builders and the development industry as a whole.

Cllr Jane Chitty, Medway's portfolio holder for strategic development and economic growth, said: "The event will mark a new dawn in the delivery of building control services."