Multi-million-pound seafront revamp plans refused

Controversial plans to transform a Kent seafront town have been turned down.

Spearheaded by multi-millionaire Sir Roger De Haan, the huge revamp of Folkestone Harbour would have seen hundreds of new waterfront homes built.

Also mooted were leisure, hospitality and retail outlets, although some residents had registered concerns over their cost and how they might look.

But at a meeting of Folkestone and Hythe District Council's planning committee on Tuesday the plans were rejected by councillors.

A spokesperson for Folkestone Harbour & Seafront Development Company said: "We are considering our position following decisions made at the council's recent planning committee meeting and will provide an update in due course."

Sir Roger De Haan, whose father set up the Saga holiday firm, bought the harbour for £11m in 2004.

He has been contacted for comment.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council said it would not be issuing a statement regarding the decision, adding it was up to planning committee councillors whether or not they wish to comment.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.