New design proposals for Folkestone Harbour have left residents wondering if the Flintstones are moving in.
by
Kay McLoughlin
I moved to Folkestone in 2003 and have seen some amazing changes implemented by Roger De Haan in the last 20 years and I’ve always been a massive supporter of the improvements to this wonderful seaside town BUT even I am appalled at the monstrosities that could be built on the Harbour car park and surrounding area.
I remember when Roger De Haan purchased the Rotunda site and Harbour from Jimmy Godden to PREVENT it being turned into another Benidorm! Folkestone is known for its gorgeous, panoramic views and the feeling of space, these horrific designs look like they’ve been created by a work experience student. I don’t think I’ve been this upset by proposed changes to Folkestone since the parking shambles saga a few years back.
Roger De Haan has gone from creating an amazing legacy to being in danger of becoming the new Jimmy Godden. I have never seen the town this angry since Jimmy Godden’s original plans for the area. I’m still waiting to meet someone who thinks it’s a good idea for Folkestone.
I walked around the harbour area yesterday, chatting to local people who live and work down there, and they are so upset about the possibility of our beautiful views and feeling of openness being blocked and destroyed by the ugliest buildings in the world.
I’ve seen several designs over the years of possible buildings in that area, the original ones were totally in keeping with the area, as the designs progressed, with several options being offered, they have got worse and worse and the buildings bigger and bigger. Some of the designs look like the transformation of Wembley by the Arena and Stadium, or the soulless housing estates by EXCEL. We are NOT London, WE ARE A SMALL SEASIDE FISHING TOWN.
My only hope is that Roger De Haan listens to the people of Folkestone and scraps these awful plans.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
There is a public consultation taking place on Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd July 11am-5pm at the Customs House at Folkestone Harbour and there is also a petition on change.org: ‘Block the Folkestone Harbour Blocks‘. Visit the public consultation or sign the petition to express your feelings about the proposed plans.
About
Kay McLoughlin is a radio & podcast presenter & producer. She has lived in Folkestone since 2003 and has been a visitor to the town since the ‘80s.
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Oh no this is horrific. The wonderful thing about Kent has always been the beautiful historic buildings and that old-fashioned feeling of being transported back in time. Especially the seaside towns. I am really saddened by this. Let me know if there’s anything I can do to share this to help stop this madness. x
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