Something Old, Something New

Making use of empty properties in Dover and plans to regenerate the district and unlock its full potential are the talking points at the next Dover West Neighbourhood Forum. The meeting at 6.30pm for 7pm on Monday 18 June at Capel-le-Ferne Village Hall, Lancaster Avenue, will hear from Susan Pledger from Kent County Council and John Day from Dover District Council about a project to bring vacant properties in the district back into use.

Mary Marshall from the Government Office for the South East (GOSE) will talk about the work GOSE is doing locally to help regenerate Dover and capitalise on its infrastructure and location.

Chairman of the Neighbourhood Forum Bryan Cope said: "This is an ideal opportunity for local people to have their say and help influence the future direction of Dover. Regenerating parts of the district are a top priority and this will be achieved by revitalising existing buildings and the creation of new ones, so it will be good to hear from our guests on the evening."

Leader of Dover District Council Paul Watkins said: "These are exciting times with a range of regeneration initiatives happening throughout the district. We are working hard to bring empty properties back into use, to enhance the environment, improve housing and contribute to this regeneration. The forums are a welcome chance for closer working between partners in the community to ensure that services are responsive to local needs of residents."

There is an opportunity for an informal chat with Forum Members from 6.30pm before the meeting starts at 7pm. For more information, please contact Louise Bolton, Community Liaison Manager, on 01622 221947 or email louise.bolton@kent.gov.uk.