2018 represents an important milestone in Medway’s history. It marks 20 years since the founding of Medway and the creation of the new unitary authority, Medway Council.
The last two decades have seen Medway transform into one of the most promising growth areas in the UK, laying the foundations for an exciting future.
Transformation
Medway faced huge legacy challenges following the closure of the Historic Dockyard Chatham in 1984, including high unemployment, shortage of skills, a weak economy and health inequalities. This has driven our relentless focus on providing more high value employment opportunities and growing a skilled workforce.
Medway has transformed and seen many huge improvements over the past 20 years. The dockyard is now home to modern residential developments, retail, office and commercial spaces, as well as a university campus with more than 12,000 students.
Building on the past
Medway has enjoyed a world-wide reputation for its rich heritage, including Rochester and Upnor castles, Rochester Cathedral, The Historic Dockyard Chatham and Grade 1 listed buildings, such as The Guildhall.
But in the last 20 years it has been catapulted into a modern, successful area with an ambitious vision for the next 20 years.