An outline planning application for up to 135 new homes on brownfield land in Folkestone has been submitted.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council bought the former Ship Street gasworks site in 2021 and is committed to bringing it back into use.
A proposal for up to 135 homes (22% of which would be affordable), non-residential floorspace, a new pocket park, a vehicle-free green link, car and cycle parking and other associated works is now being considered by the local planning authority.
The scheme, designed by Fletcher Priest Architects and Arup, also includes the retention of the historic perimeter brick walls on the corner of Bournemouth Road and Ship Street.
Cllr Connor McConville, Cabinet Member for Assets and Local Government Reorganisation, said: “This site will deliver an exciting new residential development, provide much-needed homes and offer pleasant walking and cycling links from Folkestone Central station to the town centre and harbour.
“We are very pleased to reach this milestone which is a significant step forward in delivering this brownfield site that has been largely derelict for over 50 years.”
Two public engagement events were held in 2022 and 2023 – most residents agreed building homes on the land would improve the look and security of the area.
The local planning authority is currently consulting on the application. You can view and comment on it by visiting the planning portal before 9 October 2025.
Cabinet members agreed the amended delivery strategy for the site in January 2025 – a move that will enable a developer partner to bring forward this vital regeneration scheme.
It is currently being marketed and interested parties are encouraged to get in touch through agents Avison Young.
Central government showed its support for the innovative scheme in late 2023 when it approved a bid for £2.5m Brownfield Land Release Fund grant. This money will go towards the remediation of the site to prepare it for housing.