An experienced professional team of designers, engineers and sustainability experts has been chosen by Folkestone & Hythe District Council to help bring a brownfield site in Folkestone back to life.
Supported by Homes England, the local authority is developing plans for a housing-led development at the former gasworks in Ship Street.
Arup and Fletcher Priest Architects have now been appointed to assist the masterplan design work for the site, which has been left derelict as far back as 1956.
The proposal is a mixed-use, housing-led development which could include a sustainable mix of energy efficient homes with courtyard gardens, commercial space, and public creative and cultural space.
Cabinet Member for Special Projects Cllr David Godfrey said: "We are looking forward to bringing the site forward, helping to repair this long-standing tear in the urban fabric of Folkestone.
"We continue in our plan to transform this unsightly plot into a highly attractive and sustainable development that benefits the local community and positively adds to the distinctive cultural character of Folkestone."
An event giving residents an opportunity to inform the project brief was held in March 2022 and there will be further chances for the public to have their say on ideas in the near future.
Arup will lead the technical design team, with Fletcher Priest as architect and urban design lead.
Rehana Raja - Arup's commercial property lead for UK, India, Middle East and Africa - said: "The approved development will deliver sustainable new homes for the community, using low carbon, adaptive and regenerative design, sustainable construction and promoting healthy living."
Stina Hokby, associate partner at Fletcher Priest Architects, added: "We look forward to working with Arup, the council and the community to deliver a next generation housing scheme that will benefit the local neighbourhood whilst respecting the history of the site."
The Ship Street site is situated in a strategically important position between Folkestone Central station and the town centre - including the harbour area.
Working closely with visionary arts charity Creative Folkestone, options to integrate art and creativity into the project is being reviewed.
Creative Folkestone chief executive Alastair Upton, said: "Creative Folkestone will continue to work alongside our colleagues at Folkestone & Hythe District Council to help them create a beautiful, imaginative and welcoming place for people to live, work and play."
The appointment of Arup and Fletcher Priest Architects follows the awarding of a Homes England grant towards the appointment of a multi-disciplinary consultancy team.
A spokesperson added: "Homes England is happy to be working with Folkestone & Hythe District Council on this important property led regeneration scheme in the centre of Folkestone."
Visit folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/ship-street for more information about the project and the history of the site.