Question by Trudy Dean to Matthew Balfour, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport

Over 100 acres of the former Aylesford Newsprint site is currently in receivership and a master plan for its development is being consulted upon. Can the Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport confirm that KCC is engaged with this process and in his reply can he confirm that KCC will use its influence to gain much needed infrastructure improvements including

- better access to the Strood bound platform at New Hythe station

- safer pedestrian crossing arrangements to Leybourne Park across Bellingham Way

- a cycle route through the site from New Hythe to Station Road, Aylesford

- an improved river side towpath between New Hythe and Millhall and a full assessment of the effect of opening up Bellingham Way between Leybourne Way and Station Road, Aylesford on current A20 traffic congestion.

Answer

I can confirm that KCC has been involved in discussions over the former Aylesford Newsprint site with Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and the site developers. I understand that the developers will now be firming up on their proposals and collecting further information in anticipation of submitting a planning application later this year following a second public consultation. This is an important site both for Aylesford and Kent and KCC will be seeking improvements to community services, education and highways necessary to mitigate its impact. I agree with you, highways is a key area and measures to improve access to public transport services, pedestrian crossings and footways and facilities for cyclists as you have set out will be carefully considered as part of the planning process.