News

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

Local Conservatives were celebrating this week when it was announced that they had finally found the money to save the Folkestone Bandstand.

The long delay by the council had prompted the Folkestone Herald to step in and campaign for support from Shepway residents to save the building. 

But according to documents which were shown to the Hawkinge Gazette, Tory run Shepway Council would appear to be responsible for the repairs, or if  necessary, the demolition of the Bandstand. 

Folkestone Estates, who lease the land and buildings to the council for just £1 annually, could have stepped in and made the necessary repairs and charged them for the cost.

Eventually the money has arrived, with Shepway District Council contributing £50,000, County Councillors Robert Bliss and Richard Pascoe's Member discretionary 2nd home money £35,000 each and the balance from County Hall.

Councillor Robert Bliss said, “This is great news for Folkestone�.

The aim is that the bandstand will be open for Easter next year.

Robert Bliss continued, “We already have planned a Royal Marine Swing band to do a charity event and the Council is looking forward to designing an interesting programme for next year.�