A new strategy to help tackle the “inactivity time-bomb” in Thanet has been published.

Cabinet members approved the Active Thanet strategic framework last night, which looks at encouraging residents to live a healthy life.

According to Thanet District Council (TDC) data, 28.6% of people on the isle exercise for less than 30 minutes a week.

The authority is now looking to work with partners and raise the profile of sport and active recreation, increase opportunities for people to participate, and provide more facilities.

Active Thanet will replace TDC’s former Sports Matters programme, and is designed to help people live a “full and fulfilling life” rather than trying to just increase participation in sport.

Cllr Lesley Game (Con), portfolio holder for housing and safer neighbourhoods, said: “The core of this framework is to look at how we tackle the inactivity time-bomb that challenges our wards.

“I’m sure you’re aware of younger children, teenagers, or maybe even adults who sit in front of their PlayStation 4 or Xbox all day – and it is becoming a problem.

“We need to get people out, and we need to get them fit.

“I’m not saying this is a nanny state – what I’m saying is give them the opportunity to actually get out there and begin to do some physical activity – especially the children.”

The document looks at how the council will engage with “hard to reach groups”, such as women, ethnic minorities, and those who do not seem themselves as active.

Life expectancy is up to 10 years lower in the most deprived areas of Thanet compared to more affluent areas.