Five Towns Make a City…
;)
Leading architect Sir Terry Farrell launched his vision for Medway today in a report called ‘Five Towns Make a City’.
Much of the report focuses on the importance of the river. It gave Medway its rich history. And now – says Sir Terry – it is the key to Medway’s future.
Thousands of jobs were lost when the Royal Navy pulled out of Chatham in 1984. This, coupled with the decline of traditional riverside industries, left the local economy struggling. “But it also released the best of Medway’s land, creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity”, says Sir Terry.
He launched his report at today’s Thames Gateway Forum, a two-day conference at London’s Excel exhibition centre. He told visitors: “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to work as Medway Design Champion and the launch today of Five Towns Make A City is a real landmark. I have been hugely impressed by the commitment to the project that’s been shown by everyone involved in Medway.
“Medway’s successful future depends on reconnecting the towns to the river, investment in landscape-based and environmental regeneration projects, and respect for the area’s unique built heritage. The Thames Gateway Forum this week is all about showcasing what can and remains to be done across the Gateway region: Medway should be proud that through this work it is leading the way.”
Leader of Medway Council Cllr Rodney Chambers, said: “Two years ago Sir Terry became Medway’s design champion. He has since been made design champion for the whole of the Thames Gateway. We’re delighted that so distinguished a figure shares our enthusiasm and ambition for Medway’s future.”
Day-one of the Forum brought dozens of visitors to Medway’s stand, including a delegation of business leaders from China – pictured with Cllr Jane Chitty, Medway Council Cabinet member for Strategic Development and Economic Growth.
Five Towns Make a City can be downloaded here