- Topographical survey from Bench Street to Pencester Road
- Pedestrian count to determine town centre footfall
- Photographic survey of town centre buildings
J C White Geomatics is undertaking a detailed topographical survey of Dover town centre from Bench Street to Pencester Road to accurately record road widths, features, street furniture, levels, and other information. This will be used by architects and engineers as the basis for proposed improvements, consultation and funding bids.
NEMS Market Research will be undertaking pedestrian counts at key locations in Dover town centre. These counts are being undertaken in order to determine the pedestrian footfall figures pre- and post- opening of the St James development. The footfall survey will be repeated in a year's time.
Finally, a photographic survey of buildings in the town centre commences in early March. This will be used to inform and prioritise potential enforcement action under section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 where the condition of land or buildings is having a harmful effect on the area. The photographic survey will capture a record of the existing condition of these buildings particularly focusing on parts of the building that are in need of repair/urgent action, including roofs, guttering and downpipes, walls, doors, windows, and architectural details.
Cllr Keith Morris, Leader of Dover District Council, said: "The imminent opening of the St James development provides a major boost for the Dover economy and we want the whole town to benefit. We can all do our bit by pledging to shop local.
"These surveys will help shape a plan to create an improved environment for shoppers and visitors alike. The Town Team tell us this is what business owners want.
"You only have to look up to see that many of the buildings on the existing high street are architecturally very interesting, but in some cases they too need investment to realise their potential."
