Full Breakdown
Medway Council Approves £45.95m Purchase of 791 Homes Amid Opposition Concerns
4/28/2026, 6:03:42 AM
Decision to Acquire Nearly 800 Homes
At a full-council meeting on Thursday, Medway Council approved the purchase of 791 residential properties from a social-housing provider exiting the area. The deal, valued at £45.95 million, follows cabinet approval earlier in the month and received the sign-off of the Labour and Co-operative-run council, despite a minority of opposition votes.
Context and Rationale
The provider’s departure was described by some councillors as a rare opportunity to expand the council’s housing stock and raise tenant standards. Labour leaders framed the acquisition as essential to ensure the homes are allocated to Medway residents rather than remaining vacant or passing to private owners.
Key Actors
The Labour and Co-operative majority, led by council leader Vince Maple, championed the purchase. The Conservative Group, represented by councillor Andrew Lawrence, opposed the timing and financing. All parties are members of Medway Council.
Financial Scope
Official Positions
Vince Maple warned that failing to secure the properties would leave a large number of homes unfilled for local residents, describing it as a community risk. He pledged that due diligence would be undertaken and that the council would walk away if the deal proved unfavorable. Andrew Lawrence cautioned that councillors were being asked to commit financially before due diligence was completed, urging a pause until borrowing costs were confirmed affordable.
Opposition Concerns
Four opposition councillors voted against the purchase, citing insufficient information on funding mechanisms. The Conservative amendment to delay the vote was defeated. Much of the council meeting was held in private due to the financial sensitivity of the proposal.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The risk for our community if this doesn't go ahead is that close to 800 homes won't be filled with Medway residents.” — Vince Maple, Council Leader
- “Conservative councillor Andrew Lawrence said members were being asked to "sign a blank cheque" before due diligence had been completed.” — Andrew Lawrence, Conservative Councillor
- “Councillors heard it was a "rare opportunity" to take on the stock and improve standards for tenants.” — Unnamed councillor (cited in council discussion)
Gaps in Information
The council has not disclosed specific borrowing terms, interest-rate assumptions, or the timeline for completing due diligence. No independent assessment of the purchase price versus market value has been released.
Next Steps
The Conservative Group has referred the cabinet decision to an overview and scrutiny committee on 7 April, where members will be able to question the financing plan and overall affordability of the acquisition.
