Through the government’s Levelling Up Fund – Round 2, we’re working in partnership with Peel L&P on a joint bid to secure funding for the Gillingham Open Lines: Connecting Communities project.
This project will create a 1.4km pedestrian and cycle connection 'greenway' between Gillingham Waterfront and Gillingham town centre.
It will improve access for local residents into the town centre (and between existing communities) and provide a greener travel alternative for residents that will benefit the local environment.
What we’re looking to do
The project covers 4 areas:
1.4km pedestrian and cycle connection between Gillingham Waterfront and Gillingham town centre
‘The Greenway’ route, would transform the disused former railway line into a health and wellbeing corridor. The Greenway would be an active travel path, connecting Chatham Waters’ residents and workers, the University Technical College and several university campuses with the Gillingham train station. This will allow 20,000 students to be within 45 minutes of London.
Railway Street
Improvements along the street that connects Gillingham High Street to the beginning of the Greenway.
Gillingham High Street improvements
This will include improved access for cyclists and upgrading the high street with new planting, furniture, cycle provisions, play and outdoor space for cafes/shops.
Gillingham High Street.
Green skills hub
Plans for a new career-skills space for people to develop skills in engineering, construction and manufacturing.
Design proposals
View the design proposals.
The bridge.
The benefits
If we’re successful, the project will provide the following benefits to Gillingham:
- encourage more families to spend time in Gillingham providing new spaces and opportunities for activities
- boost Gillingham town centre’s economy by making it easier for people to travel there to use the train station and high street
- increase connectivity across Medway to help Gillingham residents access the town through using 'active transport' means like walking and cycling
- improve Gillingham High Street to give people more of a sense of pride of place
- health improvements through promoting walking and cycling while also improving air quality.
The park crossing vision.