Casting a shadow over Military Road, the infamous orange-red brick office block at the heart of Chatham town centre is a familiar sight for many — but it has stood empty or part-used for most of its history. However, we can see major improvements to the Mountbatten House over the course of the next couple of years, as plans were revealed at the Medway Council cabinet meeting this week regarding the building's future. Picture Credit: Chris Whippet Councillors discussed to determine whether the existing lease agreements for the Pentagon Shopping Centre and Mountbatten House should be surrendered/re-granted with the head lease in order to facilitate the possible development of parts of the premises. The office building has been earmarked to be potentially converted into apartments and possibly a hotel, with stunning views of the river and a range of local amenities within a short walking distance. Improvements to the bland grey concrete facade has also been previously considered in regeneration documents. Picture Credit: Brian Damerell During Medway Council’s cabinet meeting, River ward councillor Andrew Mackness said that he welcomed the plans and would like to see a roof top bar considered. Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Mackness commented: “Why not? Why would we not have them when you’ve got the most wonderful view up there? There would clearly be a demand for it and people would use it. “We need to be far more aspirational, far more ambitious and focus on the positives. If Manchester can have it’s Hilton Sky Bar, why can’t Medway have theirs?” He explained that he would also like to see a hotel on a few of the floors as well as housing. Future Chatham would like to provide credit to Medway Messenger editor Clare Freeman for the quotes displayed in this news article. "Prefer unique wedding venue + hotel accommodation to upper floors. Another idea would be to establish a floor for a Medway-wide easy access hub dedicated to childrens clubs (dancing, martial arts, Scouts/Guides/Cubs/Brownies, keep-fit, Army/Navy/Police cadets, Arts & crafts etc.)" The building, which is described as a “key asset that is underused” by Medway Council, sits on top of the Pentagon Shopping Centre next to the bus station.
New owners, Ellandi, took over the lease for both premises in December 2015 and have stated that they would like to redevelop the building and their plan is expected to involve new homes and other uses. Comments are closed.
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August 2023
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