UK’s Folkestone Set to Shine with New Twenty Million Pounds Regeneration, Transforming Kent’s Seaside Charm into a Must-Visit Destination

Published on February 26, 2026

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Folkestone, a coastal town in Kent, is set to undergo a significant £20 million transformation aimed at revitalising its town centre and enhancing its appeal as a top tourist destination. The regeneration project will replace the outdated bus station with a vibrant new park, creating a central “green heart” for both locals and visitors. This revitalisation will not only improve the aesthetics of Folkestone but also boost tourism by offering a more accessible, welcoming space that blends modern amenities with natural beauty. With construction set to finish by the summer of 2026, Folkestone is on track to become one of the most attractive destinations along the UK’s south coast.

Folkestone, a charming coastal town nestled in Kent, has gained widespread attention after being named Time Out’s top place to visit in the UK for 2025. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning coastline, and artistic vibe, Folkestone is on the verge of a significant transformation. The town is currently undergoing an ambitious £20 million regeneration project, and local leaders are eager to see the vision come to life, with the next phase of work set to commence soon.

This regeneration, which began in April 2025, is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026, and it promises to reshape Folkestone into a more attractive, accessible, and modern destination. The ambitious project focuses on revitalising the town’s heart, particularly Bouverie Square, which has long been seen as an eyesore due to the outdated and unattractive bus station that once dominated the area. The regeneration efforts are designed to create a new public park, which will serve as the “green heart” of Folkestone, a welcoming and green space that can be enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike.

The transformation will involve removing the unsightly bus station and replacing it with an open park. This new space will feature extensive planting, new greenscaping, and pedestrian-friendly pathways to create a more inviting atmosphere. One of the most significant changes will be the redesign of the surrounding streets, which will include the removal of the one-way traffic system that currently runs along the southern side of Middelburg Square. This change will help create a safer and quieter environment for pedestrians and cyclists, contributing to a more relaxed and pedestrian-friendly town centre.

Additionally, the new bus station layout will introduce a linear configuration, which will make it easier for visitors to access public transport. The design will focus on improving pedestrian safety and ease of movement, enhancing the overall experience of navigating the town. The new layout will also help reduce traffic congestion in the area, further promoting a calm and pedestrian-centric atmosphere in the town centre.

The regeneration project is already more than 40% complete, and while it has made significant progress, temporary disruptions in the town centre are still expected. The area around the former bus station has been closed off to allow for the demolition of old structures, including the disused shelters and planter walls. These changes are essential to clear the way for the new park and public amenities that will soon take their place.

In the short term, the closures and construction work have caused some inconvenience, including the temporary closure of public toilets in the area. However, plans are in place to reopen the toilets in late spring, ensuring that essential services are available to both residents and visitors as the project continues. While the work may cause some disruption, the long-term benefits of the regeneration are clear: Folkestone will soon be home to a much more modern, attractive, and functional town centre that is better equipped to handle the needs of both locals and tourists.

As part of the revitalisation plan, Bouverie Square will also see the introduction of a dedicated play area, ensuring that families and children can enjoy the space. This new feature will add an exciting dimension to the park, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities. The new park will also act as a central meeting point for the community, a place where people can relax, socialise, and enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful and safe environment.

The regeneration of Folkestone’s town centre is a key element of a broader plan to enhance the town’s appeal and improve its infrastructure. With its coastal location and close proximity to London, Folkestone is already a popular destination for both day-trippers and holidaymakers. The regeneration project is set to boost this appeal further by creating a town centre that is more accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable.

This revitalisation is particularly significant for the town’s tourism sector, as it will provide more attractive spaces for visitors to explore. Folkestone has long been known for its thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, theatres, and exhibitions that draw in thousands of visitors each year. The new public park and improved town centre are expected to complement these cultural attractions, making the town an even more attractive destination for tourists from across the UK and beyond.

The improvements are also expected to boost the local economy by attracting more visitors to the area. As Folkestone becomes a more desirable destination, businesses in the town centre will benefit from the increased footfall. New restaurants, shops, and cafes are likely to open in response to the revitalisation, contributing to the town’s economic growth and creating more opportunities for local employment.

With the project now in full swing, Folkestone is on track to become a more modern, vibrant, and sustainable town that will continue to attract visitors for years to come. The regeneration will not only improve the physical appearance of the town but will also foster a stronger sense of community and pride among residents. By creating a more welcoming, green, and pedestrian-friendly environment, Folkestone will become a prime example of how thoughtful urban regeneration can bring lasting benefits to both locals and tourists.

The regeneration of Folkestone is a much-needed and exciting development that promises to enhance the town’s appeal and provide a brighter future for its residents and visitors. The ongoing works are set to transform the town centre into a more attractive, accessible, and functional space that will be enjoyed by everyone who visits. With the completion of the £20 million regeneration project on the horizon, Folkestone’s transformation is well underway, and the town’s future looks brighter than ever.