Proposed Submission: Gravesham Local Plan Core Strategy

5.4 Physical and Social Infrastructure5.4.1 It is important that sufficient infrastructure is provided to meet the needsof existing and new residents, employees and businesses within the Borough.Facilities such as GP surgeries, schools and libraries play an important role inproviding for the health, welfare, social, educational and spiritual needs of thecommunity. Such facilities can add vibrancy to communities, provide a focusfor activities, foster community spirit and contribute to the quality of life formany residents. They can also provide an essential service to communities.The loss of such facilities can have adverse consequences in terms ofaccessibility to services locally, and can lead to unsustainable travel patterns.It is also important to address existing deficiencies in services. At the sametime, planning for infrastructure is being carried out when there areuncertainties over future service delivery models and future funding decisionsby national government.5.4.2 This section specifically deals with physical and social infrastructure.The policy requirements in relation to Green Infrastructure and Green Space,Sport and Recreation are dealt with under Core Policies CS12 and CS13.5.4.3 Gravesham Borough has benefited from significant investment ininfrastructure in recent years. It has a relatively new police station andcommunity hospital as well as a walk-in health centre. Four of its eightsecondary schools received Building Schools for the Future funding whichmeant that their premises could be refurbished or rebuilt. North West KentCollege was redeveloped to provide better facilities. Implementation of theFastrack Bus Rapid Transport System began and aims to provide a highquality, attractive public transport system linking major existing and newdevelopments. Residents, employees and businesses also now benefit fromthe introduction of High Speed 1 train services from Gravesend to London andfrom Ebbsfleet to London and the continent. This front-loading ofinfrastructure has provided capacity for growth in the area.5.4.4 The provision of infrastructure is recognised as an important part of newdevelopment in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). It requireslocal planning authorities to work with other authorities and providers to138