Councillors have moved forward with plans to build council homes on green spaces.

Two sites in Twydall, Gillingham, are being considered as areas the council could use for homes for older people.

In November, the council submitted plans to build nine one-bedroom bungalows with supported parking along with the refurbishment of a playground in Sturry Way Park following a public consultation.

Planning permission is also being sought to build 14 two-bedroom houses in Eastcourt Green and to replace garages opposite Lynsted Road with five two-bed houses and garages at the rear of Bradbourne Avenue with two two-bedroom semi-detached houses.

At a meeting of Medway Council's cabinet on Tuesday, January 14, councillors approved plans to advertise their intention to use the land for housing, subject to planning permission being approved.

The homes will be aimed at older people who are looking to downsize.

Cllr Rodney Chambers (Con), portfolio holder for inward investment, strategic regeneration and partnerships said: "For years we have been saying that we need accommodation for people to downsize to but of course, this is within the public sector.

"We do have an ageing community both in the public sector and the private sector and I think we should be pushing this as an example of the public sector (provision)."

Earlier last year, protest picnics took place in Sturry Way Park opposing the development and two pensioners threatened to chain themselves to trees that could be axed under the plans.

Medway Council has around 3,000 properties across Twydall, Gillingham and Rainham.

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