Proposed Submission: Gravesham Local Plan Core Strategy

4.5.7 Considerable progress has been made in restoring and upgrading theThames and Medway Canal as a contribution to the Green Infrastructurenetwork. The section between the Canal Basin and Mark Lane has beeninfilled and the Council is seeking the reinstatement of this part of the canalwhere this is shown to be feasible. Where cost precludes reinstatement at thetime development takes place, the design will be required to facilitate futurereinstatement.4.5.8 Canal Basin Regeneration Area (sub-area 2.1) comprises the CanalBasin itself and the area lying north of the gasholders as far east as theDenton Slipways site. The Canal Basin has been restored as part of the firstphase of redevelopment of the area and is in active use as a boating marina.This complements the recreational function of the Riverside Leisure Area tothe west and is the type of marine related use that the Borough Council wouldwish to see expand.4.5.9 To the north and east of the Canal Basin lies an area that is currently ingeneral employment use. The buildings are mainly old and in poor condition,with much of the land used for open storage. It has long been recognised thatthis area has potential for regeneration and it is shown as a Key Site. TheCouncil's approach to this area is that mixed use regeneration will continue tobe supported that complements the development which has already takenplace to the south of the Canal Basin. This will comprise a mix of residentialand business uses that have regard to the constraints imposed by its locationin a flood risk area and the proximity of gasholders at Canal Road. A range ofshops and services to serve the development and the existing residential areato the south should be included. There is a resolution to grant planningpermission for such use.4.5.10 The Canal Basin along with the locks, swing bridge and otherassociated features are Grade II listed. There are thought to be significantburied archaeological remains associated with the canal, early railway,previous industrial uses and Albion Baths. It is also thought that there is a wargrave containing the remains of Flight Sergeant Eric Williams from a WorldWar Two crash site around Albion Parade. These features will need to beinvestigated and the heritage interest preserved and interpreted. The Canal75