Residents are being invited to share their views on proposed changes to Folkestone town centre’s road network at two public engagement events next week.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council secured £19.8m from the government’s Levelling Up Fund earlier this year – part of which is being used to create a more welcoming, greener route from Folkestone Central railway station into the heart of the town.
The council has been working with delivery partner, Kent County Council, and infrastructure consultants, AECOM, to develop phase one of Folkestone – A Brighter Future.
Plans include simplifying the complicated road system around the town centre, including Cheriton Road, Middelburg Square and Shellons Street, as well as providing dedicated cycle lanes and upgraded pedestrian crossings.
Maps, diagrams and illustrations outlining what the future could look like in the area of Station Approach, Cheriton Road and Cheriton Gardens will be on display at the Bouverie House Business Centre in Bouverie Place, Folkestone (CT20 1AE) between midday and 7pm on both Wednesday 5 July and Thursday 6 July.
Residents will have the opportunity to comment on the proposals and talk to those who have been involved in the planning to date.
The information and a survey will be on Folkestone & Hythe District Council’s website folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/luf-public-engagement after next week’s event meaning those unable to attend can get involved. Paper copies can be made available by emailing public.engagement@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk or phoning 01303 853000.
Cllr Rich Holgate, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “We hope as many as possible will come along to the public engagement events. It will be really valuable to hear the views and comments of those who use the routes regularly and will have particular insight to share on the proposed improvements.”
Further resident engagement will also take place during the later phases of the project which include the changes to Bouverie Square, the development of Folca and improvements to Sandgate Road.
Creative Folkestone has been appointed as the creative partner for the project and will be involved throughout.
Jo Cowdrey, Head of Curatorial for Creative Folkestone, said: “Creative Folkestone understands the transformative power of art, creativity and cultural placemaking within the urban context. The creative industries continue to grow and play a vital role in making Folkestone a great place to live, work, play and visit for all.”