Cllr Chambers' Message in full
The river is one of Medway’s greatest assets. The Royal Navy first harnessed its potential in 1547, when our naval legacy begins. Many will remember the sad days of the early 1980s when the Navy announced they were withdrawing from Chatham, after more than four hundred years of significant service to the nation.
The 21st century has restored purpose to Medway’s waterfront. Medway is an area of significant growth, and exciting changes are already underway. Much has been achieved, and I have a tremendous sense of expectation for the future. In just over twenty years, the former Dockyard site has become home to three universities with 6,000 students; over 1,000 homes with 2,500 residents; office space for 3,000 people; a new school and doctors’ surgery; shopping, entertainment and leisure facilities; and at the heart of it all, the Historic Dockyard – an award-winning mixed-use community and visitor attraction, welcoming 130,000 visitors each year. Year upon year, I am impressed by the blend of respect for the past and vision for the future. Chatham’s roots truly are the foundation for its future in so many ways. Chatham Dockyard, for example, achieved prominence for being at the forefront of innovation in building technology - this source of inspiration must continue to influence and underpin modern Medway. Regeneration and heritage will together shape our vibrant future.
Our future World Heritage Site contains 60 scheduled ancient monuments, 152 listed buildings, four conservation areas, two gardens of historic interest and one site of nature conservation interest. Government advisors confirm what we already know - that Chatham is of exemplary international value. I, like many, am overwhelmed by this intensity of heritage value, and am proud to call Medway home. I look forward to the day Medway takes its deserved place on the World Heritage List.
Cllr Rodney Chambers,
Leader of Medway Council
