News MBC and Chartway celebrate Heather House redevelopment
Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) and Chartway Group are pleased to announce the completion of the redevelopment of the Heather House site in Park Wood.
The project delivers a modern new community centre with excellent sporting facilities, now named The Heathers, along with high‑quality family homes and significant improvements to the surrounding public space, helping to enhance local facilities for residents.
The original Heather House, built in 1972, has been replaced with a purpose‑built facility designed to meet the needs of local groups and residents for many years to come. The new centre includes a flexible space for sporting activities and events, as well as dedicated on‑site parking.
As part of the redevelopment, 11 new homes have also been delivered, comprising a mix of three- and four‑bedroom properties. Four of these are being offered through the Government’s First Homes scheme, providing eligible local buyers with homes at 30% below market value.
The project forms an important part of MBC’s ongoing work to invest in neighbourhood facilities, regenerate key community assets and support the delivery of new homes for local people.
Cllr Simon Wales, MBC Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said:
The completion of this redevelopment marks a significant improvement for the Park Wood community. The Heathers provides a high‑quality, modern space for residents and community groups, while the new homes help meet local demand for family homes. We are delighted to have worked closely with Chartway to bring this scheme forward.
Speaking about The Heathers Community Centre, Cllr David Naghi, MBC Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion and Safety, added:
It is wonderful to see the regeneration of Park Wood through this project, which will add an essential community centre for residents. I am pleased that the tenant has made a commitment to activating the facility for wider community use, while increasing sporting diversity and participation.
The Heathers is pleased to welcome the Weavering Warriors RFC as its long-term tenant, who will be responsible for operating the facility and unlocking its local engagement potential. Speaking about the new centre, Laurence Pisani, Weavering Warriors Chairman, said:
This is a hugely significant moment for Weavering Warriors RFC. Returning to Park Wood to establish a long-term home places us back at the heart of the community that has always been so important to the club. We are proud to be taking on the responsibility of operating The Heathers, with rugby at its core and a clear focus on supporting a diverse range of activity. Our aim is to create an inclusive, vibrant and well-used facility that brings people together.
Commenting on the collaborative approach to the project, Graham Chivers, Group Chief Executive Officer at Chartway Group, said:
We are proud to have partnered with Maidstone Borough Council to bring forward this regeneration. This development delivers both much‑needed homes and a modern community facility that will serve Park Wood for many years. Our focus is always on creating places that support and strengthen local communities, and this project reflects that commitment.
Following the demolition of the previous buildings in late 2023, construction has progressed swiftly, and the completed development now offers a sustainable, welcoming and accessible space for the community.
The Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Brian Clark, was delighted to officially open The Heathers, celebrating the modern, welcoming and flexible space that will serve the community for many years to come, and the partnership working that brought the project together. Contact the Weavering Warriors for enquiries about using the new space.