Dover District Council is welcoming major news that, following a visit by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), the Agency has agreed to provide funding to enhance the proposed development of the St James's site in Dover.
Revised plans for the development of the St James's area, known as the Dover Town Investment Zone, have been submitted and are now in the process of consultation. Running in parallel with this, Dover District Council has been actively involved in consultation with SEEDA, together with Kent County Council and other agencies, to look into opportunities to improve the quality of the proposed development and linkages to the town centre, and the possible renewal and regeneration of adjacent sites.
Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council, said "This is a major act of faith in Dover by SEEDA and shows confidence that Dover's regeneration is firmly on SEEDA's agenda. The financial contribution from the Agency has the potential to move this development on to another phase of improvement and opportunity for Dover. Local people are waiting for this development to happen and SEEDA's involvement only reinforces the likelihood of a successful outcome for Dover when the planning processes are completed. The opportunity to reshape the commercial centre of Dover has taken another step forward."
Pam Alexander, SEEDA Chief Executive, said "When we visited Dover we saw huge potential as well as the urgent need for comprehensive urban renewal in a key quarter of this gateway town. We fully recognise the challenging range of issues that Dover is facing and are keen to support the momentum needed for successful regeneration.
"SEEDA will be making a significant capital investment in the project. However, the precise level of funding needs to be researched further in terms of total costs, value and economic impact and the added value which partners believe a broader scheme will bring. Subject to discussions about their own contributions final decision on the level of funding will be made by SEEDA's Board in December."
