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14 January 2005
Chatham Maritime has received glowing reports from the Prime Minister, following his visit to the development as part of his campaign trail in the run up to the general election.
On his first visit to the former brownfield site, the Rt Hon Tony Blair MP described the development as ‘spectacular’ as he took the opportunity to see how the 150 acre site has been transformed from its industrial beginnings as a dockyard, to a thriving new community.
Britain’s only planned new island community, Chatham Maritime has been regenerated by Countryside Maritime Ltd, a joint venture between Countryside Properties and South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).
The Prime Minister visited the new St Mary’s Island Community Centre, which opened last month and spoke to members of the community including Pamela Hake, who was one of the first residents at Chatham Maritime.
Christopher Broster, Project Director for Countryside Maritime accompanied the Prime Minister during his visit and was delighted by his praise and enthusiasm for the development.
Christopher commented: “Chatham Maritime made a real impact on the Prime Minister. He was very impressed by what has been achieved here and was keen to stress that the regeneration should be highlighted as an example of how sustainable development can be successfully achieved.”
“We are very proud that Chatham Maritime was chosen as an endorsement of the Government’s policy for regenerating former industrial land and creating a successful, high quality mixed-use development.”
Continuing the endorsement for Chatham Maritime’s success in regenerating the area, the development is one of four finalists for this year’s Deputy Prime Minister's Award for Sustainable Communities. The winner will be announced at the Delivering Sustainable Communities Summit in Manchester on Tuesday 1 February 2005.
ENDS
Issued on behalf of Countryside Properties by Harrison Cowley
MEDIA CONTACTS: CATRIN MORGAN or ANDY MARTIN on 020 7404 6777
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Information correct as at 14/01/2005