Maidstone residents have their say on new regeneration plans
Local landlord, Golding Homes, are consulting with residents in Shepway, Maidstone to gather their thoughts and feedback on a possible regeneration for the area.
The Maidstone-based organisation are proposing to make a multi-million-pound investment into the Cambridge Crescent area of Shepway, with initial plans to transform the area by developing approximately 240 new high-quality, energy-efficient homes, a modern updated shopping area, and attractive safe public zones.
Golding have begun consultation with local residents, leaseholders and shop keepers all directly impacted by the proposals on 12 May, to further understand their opinions and ideas for the area.
“Our overall aim with the consultation is to fully understand the needs of local people, so that we can create a community they are proud of,” said Keith Mandy, Regeneration and Strategic Project Manager at Golding Homes. “We understand, through our continued work in Shepway and partnership with the Maidstone Task Force, that the area currently has its challenges and there is a real need for improvement. This includes replacing older housing and improving the layout of homes on Cambridge Crescent.
“We have an opportunity to change the look and feel of the area, so it is very important for us to engage with our customers, so that we can work together to build a vibrant and safe community for everyone.”
Tom Casey, Director of Development and Sales at Golding Homes, said: “At Golding we are committed to providing quality housing for our customers and investing in local communities which they can be proud to call home.
“We are committed to involving local Shepway residents and businesses as much as possible to achieve a joint vision for the area. We are excited about the future of Shepway and want to share this journey with our customers.”
Golding Homes has excellent experience of successful large-scale regeneration schemes, having previously completed local projects including Wallis Fields; the £50m regeneration in the heart of Park Wood.
The Cambridge Crescent consultation will run until 6 June when Golding will use feedback from local people to develop proposals for the area with partners and architects.
The landlord will also be working with Public Art Consultants Francis Knight and Kent artist, Jonathan Wright, to create a unique identity and character for the Shepway redevelopment. Jonathan will invite local people to share stories and connections to the area to influence the final artwork which will be incorporated into plans for the area. Details on how to get involved in this will be shared at a later stage.
Further information on the consultation and proposed plans can be viewed online by visiting Regenerating Shepway
You can take part in the consultation via our online survey, emailing shepwayregen@goldinghomes.org.uk or call to speak to our team on 01622 212790. You can also book an appointment at our new Shepway hub office.