FI14732

Request

  1. What is to be built on the site of the former Crypt Restaurant, that is on the Snargate Street side of Bench Street by the subway?  That should read “Snargate Street side” to be clear.
  2. Please supply the name of the developer who is to be built on this site.  Also if available contact details please.
  3. Is there to be any link with the development and the long history of this site containing an ancient crypt?
  4. The developer needs to be contacted about this so please provide any useful or relevant information that may facilitate this including the name and position of the DDC project officer if there is one.

Response

  1. An early indicative vision for that area ('Bench Street West') included a mixed-use development consisting of housing and commercial opportunities – that vision did not look to build on The Crypt site. This indicative, early, vision was included within the 'Dover Beacon Project' as a potential future regeneration opportunity for further investigation. It was also highlighted, raised and discussed as part of Dover Beacon Project/Bench Street engagement events with the public.  Investigation work for the site (Bench Street West) continues and received Cabinet approval for 'viability and feasibility assessment to consider a variety of regeneration options for Bench Street (Westside), Dover', in November 2023.
  2. The Council is still at the viability and feasibility stage for the 'Bench Street West' site. No developer has been procured or appointed for the site.
  3. The Council is still at the viability and feasibility stage for the 'Bench Street West' site, as part of this work any potential development will consider the history of the site, as well as The Crypt itself.
  4. There is no developer for this site.  The Council officer currently overseeing the viability and feasibility work for the 'Bench Street West' site, including The Crypt, is the Head of Place and Growth.