Demolition Work Begins At Former Bus Depot Site

Ground breaking regeneration work for the future of the district is taking place as work began on site today for the demolition of the former Stagecoach depot in Russell Street, as part of the massive multi million pound redevelopment of Dover Town Centre.

A team of experts started work on the site and are now carrying out preparatory work for the former bus depot to be demolished. The new Stagecoach depot at Whitfield opened earlier this year, freeing the old Russell Street site. The demolition work is being led by Dover District Council, in liaison with the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA). This represents the first major demolition project for the St James's redevelopment and clears the way for this exciting and pivotal regeneration.

The St James's redevelopment includes a new Asda Superstore, with additional retail outlets and restaurant space, a 100 bedroom hotel, 53 affordable homes and a 600 space car park. Plans for the site, which could bring more than 500 jobs to the area, were submitted by developer Bond City and Asda, and approved by planners last year.

Far reaching work on the Dover Town Investment Zone site follows close work between DDC and other Dover Pride partners, including SEEDA, English Partnerships and KCC. Further major archaeological work will also be taking place in the area in the near future.

Cllr Frederick Scales, DDC Cabinet Member for Economy and Special Projects, said: "The start of demolition work is a very exciting and significant step. Although it has sometimes seemed a long and arduous process, we are delighted to see wheels in motion at this key site, and to see this progress on the ground, clearing the way to realize this pivotal site in delivering major regeneration for the area."

Cllr Nigel Collor, DDC Cabinet Member for Access and Property Management, said: "We are very pleased to see things moving at this important location. This comes as a range of exciting developments are being brought together across the area, and we continue to work closely with all our partners on this key site, and across the district, for a world-class future."

Anne Knight, Dover Pride Programme Director said: "The partnership is committed to the renaissance of the town and the DTIZ project will be a catalyst for further investment bringing about a positive change for the people of Dover."