A New Vision for Sandwich
A 'New Vision for Sandwich' is a partnership between:
- Discovery Park
- Dover District Council
- Historic England
- Kent County Council
- Sandwich Chamber of Commerce
- Sandwich Town Council
- Sandwich Town Team
Development works planned for the Guildhall Square
The R&A has agreed to provide £75,000 in funding towards the redevelopment of the Guildhall Square, alongside investment from Dover District Council, Sandwich Town Council, Kent County Council, Prince’s Golf Club and Discovery Park.
The funding is part of the £100,000 windfall received from The Open Legacy Fund, an initiative run by The R&A to leave a positive and long-lasting impact on the local environment and communities in which The Open is staged.
The redevelopment project will transform the town’s square for residents and visitors, and includes highway improvements and resurfacing of the current space along with the installation of new features such as improved seating, tree planting and lighting. The project has been developed in collaboration with the county, district and town councils, and the local community.
The bus shelter located in the Guildhall Market Square has been relocated to Sandwich Quay. This does not affect any bus services to the square. The relocation of the shelter marked the beginning of the wider development works which have now commenced for this project (September 2022).
Residents will be kept regularly updated through Keep Me Posted email bulletins and the Council website.
Frequently asked questions
What are the proposed works?
The redevelopment project will transform the town’s square for both residents and visitors, and includes highway improvements and resurfacing of the current space, along with the installation of new features such as improved seating, tree planting and lighting.
Why is it happening?
This project will be the focal point for the local community and positively enhance the public realm, creating better access and the potential for increased footfall. It will be an asset for staged events, local businesses, and the community and provide a safe, level and welcoming space for everyone’s use and enjoyment.
How is the project being funded?
The R&A has provided £75,000 in funding towards the redevelopment of the Guildhall Square, alongside additional investment from Kent County Council, Dover District Council, Sandwich Town Council, Prince’s Golf Club and Discovery Park.
The project has been developed in collaboration with the county, district and town councils, and the local community.
When will the proposed works happen and how long will they take?
Phase 1
Highway – these works started in September 2022 and are now complete (November 2022).
Phase 2
Guildhall Square – these works are due to commence in February 2023 and scheduled to last for 16 weeks.
Why has tarmac been laid close to the square’s edge by the road?
A temporary tarmac surface has been laid close to the edge by the road to allow safe continued use of this area. This surface will be replaced as part of phase two of the project.
During the works on the square, access will be maintained where possible for pedestrians as far as programming and health and safety will allow. Access to businesses fronting the works will be fully maintained during opening hours for the duration of the works.
Will I still be able to use the bus?
We are in discussion with Kent County Council and Stagecoach to maintain a full bus service wherever possible so that residents and visitors can access the centre of the town.
What will happen to the market?
The Thursday morning market will need to relocate for the Phase 2 works. It will move to the Guildhall car park located behind the Guildhall – this will be close to the original marketplace building and to the right of the Medical Centre.
Will there be a reduction in parking spaces?
Reduction in car parking spaces will be kept to an absolute minimum. Alternative areas for parking and storage have been identified and options will continue to be explored to minimise the impact on town centre parking.
Will the Guildhall still be open?
Yes, the Guildhall will be open to visitors.
Will this work have an impact on local businesses?
Access will be maintained to all local businesses for the duration of the project. Working with the contractor, DDC will be keeping local businesses fully informed for the duration of the project, including any periods of continued noise and disruption.
We politely ask that you bear with us whilst we improve this space for everyone to enjoy for years to come.
What will happen to the cobbles on the main square?
These are being donated to locals who registered their interest at the start of the project.
How can I keep updated about the project?
Residents can keep updated on the project by signing up to Dover District Council’s Keep Me Posted email bulletin service and the Council’s website. Information will also be posted on the Council’s Facebook and Twitter social media pages. Leaflets about the project are available in the Guildhall.
Who can I contact if I have a query about the project?
In the first instance, please contact: Sarah Horan, Community and Engagement Officer at Dover District Council by email: CommunicationandEngagement@dover.gov.uk or by phone: 07564 045641 who will answer or redirect your query as appropriate.
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Past Newsletters and press releases
For more information, please call 01304 872495 or email propertyservices@dover.gov.uk
