Exclusive by Alan Watkins

A massive waterside development for Gravesend is being scrapped after the developer told opponents they were withdrawing their planning appeal.

Instead a new set of plans for Gravesend's Heritage Quarter is being drawn up and should be submitted shortly.

The Heritage Quarter at Gravesend has been earmarked for a massive retail, community and housing development. It is a partnership between the council and developer Edinburgh House.

Last year the scheme was thrown out by councillors after a vigorous campaign of opposition by local residents and environmentalists under the title Urban Gravesham. It was set to go to a planning appeal later this year.

Edinburgh House has not confirmed the development but an announcement is expected soon.

They said they would issue a statement in connection with their "major development" within hours.

However, Urban Gravesham officials have received copies of the company's letter announcing the plan to scrap the appeal and submit fresh plans "in the near future."