Queenborough & Rushenden - moving ahead
 There is an exciting future ahead for Queenborough and Rushenden on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, with the launch of a major regeneration scheme to create a vibrant environment in which to live and work.
It is a major opportunity that aims to breathe new life into the area with the creation of superb transport links, hundreds of employment opportunities, community and leisure facilities, environmental improvements and new housing.
With a cash injection of £7 million from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister's (ODPM's) Sustainable Communities Plan, plus £3 million from SEEDA the initial stages of the much-needed redevelopment have already been funded.
Queenborough and Rushenden, like many traditional industrial areas in the UK, has suffered economic decline since the 1960s. However, the area’s colourful past as an important seafaring district - in addition to its inspiring waterfront location - make it a prime location for regeneration.
 The first step will be to create a masterplan to take into account the needs of the existing communities. A development framework has already been completed and adopted.
Improvements to the A249 and the Iwade bypass to Queenborough will be completed in Spring 2006, boosting access between the Isle of Sheppey and the mainland, while proposals for the Rushenden link road are being drawn up for public consultation and will be finalised later this year.
SEEDA's Director of Development and Infrastructure Paul Hudson said: "This is not just about building houses, it's about safeguarding the cultural heritage of the area, protecting the environment and helping to raise the quality of life by providing new jobs, leisure facilities, local shops, better local facilities and public transport. We want to create a vibrant, sustainable community for everyone who lives here."
Likely features of the development include employment provision, several hundred new homes and a clean-up of areas contaminated by industrial use. There will be major road improvements, education and training to fill skills gaps, marine employment and tourism opportunities.
SEEDA is leading the regeneration project and working with key partners Swale Borough Council, Kent County Council and Swale Forward.
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