THE developer in charge of realising Dartford Council's dreams for Eastern Quarry has pledged to deliver a community of the "highest quality".

As council leaders assessed responses to plans for the square-mile chalk pit, development director Nick West said: "This represents an outstanding opportunity to regenerate the area and create a vibrant development."

Mr West, of Land Securities, which owns Eastern Quarry, added: "It will provide new homes and jobs as well as improving transport."

Design guru Eric Kuhne, who masterminded Bluewater shopping centre, is working with Mr West on plans to create the "urban village" of up to 15,000 people.

Out of 350 planning briefs issued, 44 individuals and community groups responded.

On July 11, cabinet members were shown a 60-page summary of comments received.

Chief concerns were the availability of bed-space at Darent Valley Hospital, the impact on the environment and implementation of Fastrack. Up to eight schools, two health centres and five sports centres are pencilled in for the site.

Council leader Councillor John Muckle was "really impressed" by the responses.

The plans will go to a full council meeting on Monday, July 22.

July 15, 2002 19:30