Scheme to transform town centre given start date

The scheme in Folkestone is due to begin on 7 April and to be completed by summer 2026

A major regeneration project to transform a Kent town centre into a "vibrant and sustainable" hub has been given a start date.

The £20m scheme aims to improve the roads around Folkestone Central railway station and the links to the town centre for pedestrians and cyclists.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council said there would be some disruption to transport after the project begins on 7 April.

Councillor Rich Holgate, cabinet member for the district economy, said it would be "transformational" for the town centre.

He added: "It's great news that we've got a start date and partners in place who can now make these plans a reality."

The scheme will also include a change to the two-way traffic in Middelburg Square, the removal of some of the road network in Shellons Street to create a single two-way highway with more pedestrian crossings, the council said.

Speed limits would be temporarily reduced in the town while the work takes place, the authority added.

The current bus station in Bouverie Square is also to be replaced with a new park that will create a new "green heart" for the town, the council added.

Work is due to be completed by summer 2026.