A REPORT published this week revealed the stark difference in life expectancy between the socially deprived areas of east Kent and more affluent parts.

The health survey, focusing on Canterbury, Herne Bay, Whitstable and surrounding villages, reveals that the life expectancy of a person living in a struggling district with few facilities can on average be 10 years shorter than someone living in the best parts of town.

The most pronounced disparity of life expectancy contained in the report can be found in St Stephen’s corner of the city, where residents can hope to live 10 years longer than those living in Herne Bay’s disadvantaged Heron ward.

The statistics are contained in a survey carried out by the Eastern and Coastal Kent NHS for Canterbury City Council on the likely impact on the health and wellbeing of the local population caused by the planned regeneration of Wincheap.

The results are particularly revealing when addressing the life expectancy, smoking and binge drinking statistics of the probe carried out in council wards governed by the city council.

Dr Jonathan Sexton, consultant in public health for Eastern and Coastal Kent Primary Care Trust, said: “The proposed development and regeneration of Wincheap continues the evolution of Canterbury over many centuries.

“The PCT recognises the significance of these intentions for Wincheap and the effect they may have upon local communities.

“It has therefore commissioned an independent consultancy to undertake a formal Health Impact Assessment (HIA), in order that change can optimise the promotion of good population health.”

See this week's Gazette for full two-page report.