£500,000 public realm improvements to begin at Dover Place, Ashford

The final phase of public realm improvement works in Dover Place starts on Monday 10 September, with the project expected to last up to 12 weeks, Ashford Borough Council has announced.

The £500,000 council-funded scheme will include granite paving and new street lighting columns to match the works that were completed in the first phase of works in 2015. The junction into Dover Place will be improved under a Section 278 agreement with Kent County Council to improve the existing crossing point at the top of Dover Place.

The scheme will complement the trees and other soft landscaping already installed past the newly-opened Connect 38 (Commercial Quarter) office block.

This last phase completes the project commenced in 2015, improving the look, feel and connectivity of the area. The proposed work will build on the wider development in this area of the town, supporting the recent improvements and tying in with the new Commercial Quarter building.

During the works, through-traffic using Dover Place will be routed through Station Approach via the access barrier at the front of International House (which will be kept open) and through the Dover Place car park, exiting back onto Station Road.

Alternative pedestrian routes will be created and clearly signposted. An initial diversion plan is enclosed for reference.

Ashford Borough Council has commissioned the contractor Conway to undertake the construction of the project. Conway will seek to work closely with those who use Dover Place for access to their premises.

Access is to be maintained as far as reasonably practicably to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum. To understand individual needs, users who have specific access requirements will be approached by Conway directly before commencement of the works.

For queries about the works contact Helen McConnell, Public Liaison Officer at Conway, by phone on 01732 600 700 / 07917 518 529 or email [email protected]