An important step towards bringing an iconic Folkestone building back into public use is to be made next week.
Folca 2 – the Art Deco section of a former department store on Sandgate Road – will be subject to a range of improvement works ahead of its repurposing, starting Monday 9 March.
Over six months, Folkestone-based company AW Construction will ensure the structure is watertight and, more crucially, ready for the next chapter of its long history.
Specific tasks include an internal strip out, damp proofing, replacing the existing roof and some windows, and the installation of a new party wall which will separate it from Folca 1 (where a preferred bidder has been selected from six offers).
The first visible work will be the removal of external stairs on Albion Mews Road.
Cllr Connor McConville, Cabinet Member for Assets and Local Government Reorganisation, said: “Critical to this first phase are the major energy efficiency improvements.
“Utilising £1.44m from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, we can transform this building so that it reduces CO₂ emissions by over 100,000kg per year.
“These vital works will ensure Folca is at the sustainable heart of Folkestone town centre well into the future.”
Most of the work being carried out is internal, although efforts will be made to minimise disruption to nearby properties. Scaffolding will be necessary on Albion Mews Road and Sandgate Road.
Tom Locke, AW Construction Managing Director, added: “The project marks another significant regeneration scheme for the town.
“We look forward to working closely with the council, local stakeholders, residents, local suppliers and the wider project team to deliver the works safely, responsibly and to a high standard.”
Meanwhile, work continues on the occupancy strategy, which includes proposals for a medical centre and the internal design of the building (with design work currently out to tender) to ensure this important asset has a sustainable and strong legacy for the future.