Next phase of works begins in St James area

The next phase of works for the redevelopment of the St James area of Dover is underway following completion of the demolition and main archaeological investigations on the eight acre site. Earthworks and utility diversions are currently taking place across the site which is being developed to provide 120,000 sq. ft. of new retail and leisure space in the heart of the town centre.

Preparatory works for construction have started with temporary levelling of the site to accommodate piled foundations for the cinema and restaurant complex at the eastern end of the site. On completion, similar piling works will be undertaken for the Travelodge hotel on the corner of Woolcomber Street and Townwall Street, before moving on to what will be the main retail block on Townwall Street. The piling works will be undertaken with a system that minimises noise and impact on adjacent properties.

As part of these works the footway along a section of Woolcomber Street will be closed to pedestrians for approximately six months, and the footpath fronting Townwall Street will also be closed following agreement from Highways England.

Paul Ceasar, Project Manager for developers, Bond City, said: "We’d like to thank the local community for their support during the ongoing works, and the Canterbury Archaeological Trust and their volunteers who completed 215 days of excavations on the site."

Tim Ingleton, Head of Inward Investment, Dover District Council, said: "Work starting on the foundations of the St James development is another key milestone in our plans to reinvigorate Dover town centre.  Investor and tenant interest in the scheme remains strong."