ArcelorMittal Kent Wire (AMKW) tells Kallanish it is “surprised” by the UK government’s view regarding the planning decision over Chatham Docks, which could see the company end manufacturing at the site as a result.
The UK government chose not to call-in the application, resulting in Medway Council approving the redevelopment of Chatham Docks.
Kent Wire managing director Matt Brooks says: “We can confirm we received a letter from the Government saying the future of Chatham Docks is a local planning decision to be made by Medway Council alone.”
“We are extremely surprised by this view given the significance of the Docks for the entire steel and construction sectors and we are now considering our next steps on this matter given the potential damage the closure of the Docks will cause to the economy,” he adds.
The company has been part of a campaign to save the site where it has manufactured for 35 years and says its supplies over 30% of UK construction steel needs.
Brooks has previously said industrial sites such as Chatham Docks should be safeguarded to enable companies to play a part in delivering major infrastructure projects.
Carrie Bone UK
