Folkestone Harbour Arm could be open for winter season

Food and drink outlets could be open on the Harbour Arm for the first time during the winter this year, subject to demand.

As in previous years it will be open for walking and fishing (except in rough weather) during the winter having proved to be highly successful during the summer months.

The seafront boardwalk and a new walkway across the renovated listed viaduct were completed earlier this year to add to the Harbour Arm. Significant changes took place over the summer with work on reconstructing the platforms and canopies and the former station, expected to open next year, will complete the network of footpaths and access around the seafront redevelopment site.

New services have been installed on the station with repairs to platforms, walls, iron and glasswork and Folkestone Harbour nameboards will also be fitted.

Brand new canopies have been fitted and the former tracks have bene retained and filled in to provide a level walking surface and retain the area’s railway character. This has also been landscaped with planting through the middle.

Timber benches and steps have been added and boards that explain the history of the site will also be put in to explain the area’s infrastructure and maritime heritage.

Folkestone Seafront is a commercial development with upfront costs of around £74 million to date, the majority of which has come from Sir Roger De Haan, the land owner. Development of Folkestone Seafront has required investment in significant infrastructure, including the creation of sea defences. This has been greatly assisted by a grant of £5 million from the Regional Growth Fund, with support from the South East Local Enterprise Partnership, Kent County Council and Folkestone and Hythe District Council. The case for this investment was built around the provision of new homes, the creation of jobs in the area and the multiplier effect this will have on the local economy.

Find out more about the Folkestone Seafront Development.