Community benefit
In addition to creating an attractive and vibrant harbour and seafront, the masterplan’s benefits go beyond the immediate area and are consistent with Folkestone Harbour & Seafront Development Company’s commitment to supporting the town.
A significant investment is being made into the Folkestone community, including contributions to GP services within 2.5km of the Signal Box at the station. There’s financial support for local primary schools, youth and community facilities, play space, libraries, adult education, footpaths, and road improvements.
The project is also funding the transformation of public spaces in and around the harbour and seafront, including beach sports facilities; creating Leas Lift Square as a new piece of public realm, with funding to support the reopening of the Leas Lift.
The community benefits will be funded via the legally binding Section 106 agreement between Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Folkestone Harbour & Seafront Development Company, and made possible thanks to:
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The delivery of up to a total of 1,000 new homes, including up to 80 affordable homes.
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The development of up to 10,000m2 of commercial space, including leisure and retail, which will contribute to the creation of hundreds of jobs in the tourism and leisure industry – and support businesses already operating on the Harbour Arm.
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The council granting permission for the multimillion-pound restoration of the Harbour Arm, the station platforms, viaduct, and swing bridge, plus the introduction of the Boardwalk and Fountain Square.