A MAJOR new development is being planned for Clifton Wharf, Gravesend.

Down River Properties Ltd has submitted a planning application to build flats, a restaurant, and a shop on the West Street pier.

It has been designed by internationally-known architect Kohn Pederson Fox Associated and includes four three-bedroom, 57 two-bedroom and 84 one-bedroom flats, housed in four buildings which straddle West Street and are linked by a bridge.

As well as the homes, the company is proposing to build a dome on the pier which will contain a restaurant, children’s play area, viewing platform and three wind turbines.

Council leader Cllr Mike Snelling says the plans show companies are still keen to invest in the area.

He said: “Of course the independent planning process will determine the merits of the scheme on planning grounds but the fact that companies are still proposing significant projects at this time shows confidence is still high and demand continues for major regeneration schemes in our town.”

It is expected that the plans will be considered by Gravesham Borough Council’s Regulatory Board at a meeting next month.

Elsewhere, in Valley Drive, Gravesend, a £7 million project has been approved to build apartments for an Extra Care scheme for the elderly.

Work is due to start in the spring on The Abbeyfield Kent’s new development, which will provide sheltered accomodation for 56.

The society’s chief executive Leon Steer said: “We are absolutely delighted to have the support of Gravesham Borough Council.”

He added: “In less than two years the older people of Gravesend will have stunning, affordable accommodation operated by a ‘not-for-profit’ organisation that has been specialising in the care of older people for more than 40 years.

“The next stage is to apply for the appropriate grants from the HCA, formerly the Housing Corporation, to enable the scheme to begin.”

To view the plans for the West Street development, search the planning section of the council’s website www.gravesham.gov.uk using the reference number 20080903.

What do you think about the plans? Write to us with your views at Gravesend Messenger, 7 High Street, Gravesend, DA11 0BQ, or email gravesendmessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk