Ocean's Edge Scheme Nears Completion After Years of Delays

Strategic Insights -

The Ocean's Edge scheme, a long-abandoned housing estate in St Mary's Bay, is nearing completion after GC Construction Ltd took over the site in February last year. The company has demolished and rebuilt 23 properties, citing vandalism and structural issues. Despite this, the project remains under scrutiny from neighbors, who have raised concerns about fire hazards and the site's layout.

Key Takeaways:

  • 23 properties are currently available for occupation, with prices ranging from £175,000 to £650,000.
  • The scheme was first unveiled in 2016 by FDC Homes Ltd, but was hit with multiple setbacks and delays.
  • GC Construction Ltd has invested heavily in turning the estate around, including replacing windows, doors, cladding, and drainage.
  • The company has also adapted the design of several homes to better suit the coastal location.
  • Planning permission remains in place for 84 homes in total, with just 40 included in the current phase.
  • Bosses say they have "no firm date for final completion of the overall development".
  • The site was previously home to The Sands Motel, a popular family resort damaged during the Great Storm of 1987.
  • A petition signed by more than 275 residents called for parts of the estate to be demolished and the scheme reviewed.

Statistics:

  • 23 properties have been rebuilt and are currently available for occupation.
  • Prices range from £175,000 to £650,000 for the available properties.
  • GC Construction Ltd has invested in replacing windows, doors, cladding, and drainage on the properties.
  • 84 homes are planned for the entire development, with 40 included in the current phase.
  • The scheme has been under construction for over 7 years, with original plans unveiled in 2016.
  • A petition signed by 275 residents has raised concerns about fire hazards, site layout, and approval by the council.

Sources:

  • GC Construction Ltd (no specific date mentioned)
  • Folkestone Express, "Ocean's Edge scheme nearing completion after years of delays" (no specific date mentioned)
  • The Sands Motel, (no specific date mentioned)
  • FDC Homes Ltd, "Ocean's Edge scheme unveiled in 2016" (no specific date mentioned)