04 - 04 - 2025
BPTW continues to contribute to the new sustainable community at Rochester Riverside in Medway. Our designs for Phases 4 & 5 recently gained planning approval through delegated powers. These phases form part of a longstanding collaboration between BPTW, Countryside Partnerships (part of the Vistry Group), and Hyde to realise the transformative Rochester Riverside masterplan.
Medway’s flagship masterplan will provide over 1,400 new homes alongside commercial and community spaces in a landscaped public space network that connects the biodiverse riverside to the historic centre. Central to this vision is the commitment to placemaking which strengthens the local identity and creates a vibrant, cohesive community. The modern reinterpretation of Rochester continues in BPTW’s design of Phases 4 & 5 whilst further developing distinct designs that respond to the site’s industrial heritage, shaped by comprehensive consultations with local council members, stakeholders and residents.
The latest phases will introduce 353 new homes, comprising 115 houses and 238 apartments, with 79 of the apartments provided as affordable homes. The streets incorporate a greater number of street trees and urban greening than earlier phases with car parking numbers reduced due to good proximity to public transport and local services. The new community is set within innovative public spaces, including an extension to the new river walk and green spaces that enhance connectivity with the historic Rochester High Street.
A striking new entrance gateway at Eventide Park will hosts a number of commercial spaces providing valuable amenities for the wider community. Community engagement has strongly shaped decision-making in Phases 4 & 5, including improved street tree longevity, and better sustainable travel access. Public realm improvements are central to the scheme enhancing the river walk as a safe and inviting space for community interaction, while also supporting biodiversity. A temporary dock at Limehouse Wharf has been proposed by Medway Council offering the opportunity for river boat access including the Waverley Steamer, the world’s last sea going paddle steamer.
With construction on Phases 4 and 5 anticipated in the coming months, the masterplan will continue to evolve with the subsequent Phase 6, which will complete the regeneration of Rochester Riverside.
This project is a lasting legacy to Chris Bath, who sadly passed away in September 2024 and led this major regeneration project from its inception. His passion and enthusiasm for creating great places to live is evident and continues with his talented team led by Caroline Dommett and Peter Sofoluke.
Caroline Dommett From BPTW said, “This development sets a precedent for house builder quality, a highly sustainable and well connected location next to the Medieval City of Rochester with a new station just a few minutes’ walk from the new homes. In Phases 4 & 5 we’ve added more green infrastructure and street trees by reducing car parking spaces, showcasing the highly sustainable location. It will be great to see these latest phases contribute to a growing and thriving community at Rochester Riverside.”
When reflecting on the recent planning approval, Alex Hodge, Associate Development Director at Countryside Partnerships (part of Vistry) commented, “BPTW’s involvement has been critical in shaping this transformational scheme, delivering strong contextual architecture, leading the community engagement process and sharing the JV’s commitment to creating flourishing and sustainable long-term communities.”
CGIs by DW3D
