Folkestone, a town in Kent, has historically lived in the shadow of its bustling neighbor, Dover. Similar to many renowned coastal resorts in the UK, Folkestone saw its heyday from the Edwardian era to the early 1960s when it was a popular destination for Britons before overseas travel became commonplace.
In more recent times, the town faced challenges with the closure of its ferry port in the early 2000s, as the Channel Tunnel emerged as the primary link between the UK and France. However, a local resident, business magnate Sir Roger De Haan, took it upon himself to revitalize Folkestone’s fortunes.
Sir Roger, 75, who has deep roots in Folkestone, having grown up and spent his early years there, sold his family’s holiday business, Saga, and injected £100 million into rejuvenating his hometown. Describing the town’s past as “grim” with limited activities, Sir Roger highlighted the decline witnessed in many British seaside towns.
Through his investment, Sir Roger transformed neglected areas of Folkestone, once termed a “slum” due to the neglect of its old sections by a new town center. His efforts have borne fruit, with the establishment of the Creative Quarter, now a trendy tourist hub hosting 80 independent traders, attracting visitors from various parts of the world.
The ongoing transformation in Folkestone includes substantial investments in education, sports facilities, and a contentious project to redevelop the harbor with plans for tower blocks comprising homes and commercial spaces. While some residents express concerns about the town’s changing landscape, Sir Roger reassures them that Folkestone will maintain its unique identity and not emulate other popular coastal destinations like Brighton.
As property prices in Folkestone have surged, some locals feel the pinch, noting the shift in the town’s demographics and housing market dynamics. Despite the mixed reactions to the town’s evolution, Folkestone continues to evolve under Sir Roger’s vision, balancing progress with preserving its distinctive character and charm.
