by Alan Watkins

awatkins@thekmgroup.co.uk

New squares, shops and roof-top car parking are among the latest plans to redevelop central Chatham.

They will be discussed tomorrow (Tuesday) when Medway's Cabinet debates a masterplan for the High Street and Best Street areas.

The proposals suggest three new squares around the pumping station off the Brook, Clover Street Church, and St John's Church, redeveloping poorer quality buildings in the High Street, building a landmark hotel in New Road and expanding the Central Theatre.

The Trafalgar Centre would be redeveloped and the indoor market would be replaced by new high quality boutique shops.

The plans are expected to be approved for public consultation.

Discussions during the summer are likely to include exhibitions, features and ameeting with property owners.

A report to councillors says Chatham will become a city and regional shopping centre under government plans.

It will provide an extra 30,000 square metres of shops

Officers hope to attract new stores but plan for the Iceland and Debenhams stores to be remodelled and Primark enlarged.