Sandgate Parish Plan by Publications

by Sandgate for Sandgate

Sandgate Parish Plan

Beaches

Business

'Lets go for Blue Flag Status'

'Craft and Farmer's markets would be

'Turn the toilet block into more

good .........'

of an amenity'

' .......... more shops' 'Sandgate needs better mobile phone

Community and Social including the elderly and youth

and WIFI facilities'

'We need somewhere to meet friends ... and things to do'

History

'Access to facilities for the elderly'

Sandgate'

'Produce leaflets e.g. trails through

'Improve the web site' Landscape Planning and Architecture 'We do not need any more high density housing' 'New buildings should be restricted to 3 floors at the most'

Traffic and Parking 'Enforce Road Traffic Act rules regarding speed and parking.......' 'We need safe crossing places in the High Street'

Wildlife and Open Spaces 'Poems on bird boxes' 'Many people do not know that they can walk round Enbrook Park .............. walking trails'

Sandgate Parish Plan

Content

1 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 2 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 3 4 4.1 4.2

Parish Plans - The Sandgate Parish Plan Brief History of Sandgate Sandgate Today Key Issues for Sandgate Events Leading up to Production of the Parish Plan Outcomes of Consultation Summary of Aims of the Parish Plan The Steering Group The Action Plan Beaches Business Community and Social including the elderly and youth History Landscape Planning and Architecture Traffic and Parking Wildlife and Open Spaces Analysis and outcomes from the questionnaire Acknowledgements and References Acknowledgements References

Page 1

2 2 2 3 4 4 5 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 15

1.0 Parish Plans enable communities to take a leading role in ensuring that a community’s vision for itself becomes a reality. Through wide consultation with the community and local and regional partners the plan celebrates what is good and identifies local needs. An action plan sets out how those needs and wishes will be met. The plan will not only provide for the present – it will address future needs and future challenges.

1.1 Brief History Historically, Sandgate was once a little bastion against invasion. Today, six gaunt Martello Towers on the heights, a peaceful Castle on the pebble shore, the lure of the French cliffs clear in the evening light and the Channel Tunnel not far off, remind us that those days of strife are over. Economically, Sandgate has always adapted to changing times and needs. Its rise and progress clearly stem from the late 18th century days of shipbuilding for George 111's Navy. With the Napoleonic menace, the growing presence of the Military at Shornecliffe Camp established in 1794, life and trade came to the village and lodgings, inns and taverns were in demand. When peace returned, it flowered as a select and serene little watering place long before Folkestone or Hythe and it endeared itself to writers, artists and eccentrics among others. The “Camp” always played an important role in the economy of the village and as a military training ground since Napoleonic times and during both world wars, it has served as a temporary home for thousands of troops before their departure to the battlefield and it still does today. Sandgate remembers, honours and embraces its well-known, well-loved and colourful characters who have through the years made Sandgate their temporary or permanent home. And today our street and house names commemorate them........John Gough, William Wilberforce, Sir John Moore, H G Wells and James Morris to name but a few. Post war Sandgate continued to flourish. In the 70ʼs the housing stock was increased with the building of the houses in the “Golden Valley”, so called because the land was formerly covered in yellow gorse. Enbrook House was occupied by the Saga Holiday group, but they soon outgrew this Grade 2 listed building, leaving temporarily for a new home in Folkestone, but soon returning to Sandgate, when they received permission to demolish and build an ultra modern edifice on this site. Public access is now permitted to the beautiful wooded grounds of the Enbrook estate and the community enjoy the benefit of having this prestigious company working in its midst. Despite modern expansion, the constant onslaught of the English Channel and the complex geological strata on which it stands, Sandgate still proudly guards its identity and its sense of history.

1.2 Sandgate today Sandgate spans two and a half kilometres of Kent coastline between Folkestone and Hythe. It fringes the English Channel and clusters beneath steep wooded slopes. It is teeming with naval, military and social history and is a village with a fascinating mix of architectural styles. The sea wall, the network of byways and woodland paths with panoramic views across the Channel, rowing, fishing, bathing and cycling all contribute to Sandgateʼs unique appeal to residents and visitors alike. Page 2

The Sandgate landscape has had the most influence on the development of the village. In the recent past there has been much concern about the fragile nature of our geology and our history has been punctuated by landslips and floods. In spite of these environmental catastrophes a community exists in Sandgate because those who choose to live here love its unique nature.

ʻI love the people.ʼ ʻPeople are so friendly – they say hello even if they donʼt know youʼ ʻ No more flats!ʼ ʻWeʼve got to say NO to buildings over 3 stories highʼ ʻWe canʼt lose any more of our green space – Sandgate is overdeveloped!ʼ

1.3 Key Issues This Parish Plan highlights key issues which Sandgate residents feel need to be addressed in this beautiful seaside village. Issues identified early in the consultation process were categorised as follows; Beaches Business Community and Social including the elderly and youth History Landscape, Planning and Architecture Traffic and Parking Wildlife and Open Spaces The Sandgate Parish Plan will be followed closely by a Village Design Statement. It will ensure that the wishes of the Sandgate community will have a persuasive influence on the future development of the village.

ʻWe want more shops and businessesʼ 'Iʼd like to see more character tea roomsʼ ʻWe need more high class restaurants.ʼ ʻWe want our chemist and post office back.ʼ The Parish Plan will be closely linked to the District plans and Local Development Framework which we are anxious will take account of the need for the surrounding villages to offer opportunities for employment, leisure and tourism. We recognise that we play a crucial role in attracting visitors to the area and we wish to be part of the 'big picture', regenerating this part of the South East. We believe our heritage, military history and unique environment make us enviably placed to support all aspects of Shepway District Council's objectives. The views of the community have been sought and outlined in this Parish Plan. Page 3

1.4 Events leading up to the production of the Sandgate Parish Plan First public meeting held 30th October, 2008 February 2009 Steering Group formed and key issues identified. Group Leaders appointed to steer working groups February – June – Working Groups met Working Groups reported back - May – June 2009 Second public meeting held to share outcomes of preliminary work June 2009 Stand at the Sea and Food Festival 2009 to canvass wider opinion Three public meetings held as follows to consult on questionnaire proposals:

Ghurka Palace 23rd September 2009 Chichester Hall 24th September 2009 Sandgate Library 3rd October 2009

All events were advertised by leaflets delivered by volunteers to every household in Sandgate Questionnaires were distributed to every household by volunteers in November 2009 Collection points were identified and promoted Presence in Gate 28 at Christmas light turn-on for public to make any other comments Steering Committee used viral email campaigns to promote participation and response Throughout the process various articles were published in: Folkestone Herald All Day Breakfast Sandgate News in the weekly Folkestone Herald MailChimp http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcl1W5LTHIQ

1.5 Outcomes of Consultation Please see section 3 for the statistical analysis. Page 4

Initially our questionnaire elicited a 12.4% response and the Steering Group's challenge was to increase this return if our plans were to be seen to have the weight of the community behind them. The final response rate was 20%. From it, and our other consultation mechanisms, the plan was drawn up.

1.6 In summary the plan aims to • Highlight areas of concern and make concrete suggestions through which these can be addressed • Demonstrate that the Sandgate community is prepared to take an active role in supporting the Parish, Local and District Councils and Kent County Council in ensuring that the needs of the community are met , taking into account the Local Development Framework and development of the wider community • lllustrate the Sandgate community’s passion for the history of the village • Raise awareness of our determination to preserve what is good about Sandgate and enhance our prospects as a sustainable and thriving community in the future

1.7 The Steering Committee Ian Barker Melanie Chalk – History David Cowell – Traffic and Parking William Elms – Beaches Marjorie Findlay-Stone - Chair Melita Godden – Community and Social including the elderly and youth Jan Holben – Parish Councillor Roger Joyce – Landscape, Planning and Architecture Zoe Varian – Parish Councillor Season Prater - Business John Pratt – Wildlife and Open Spaces Rosemary Sanders – Treasurer ‘I love Nick’s view’‘ ‘How lovely it is to walk through woodland listening to birdsong on the one hand and the sound and sight of the sea on the other. How unique!’ ‘Our coastline is dramatic – wild – I love it – and Sandgate nestles beneath such a beautiful wooded hillside’.

Page 5

2.0 Implementation of the Sandgate Parish Plan Throughout the plan the common theme is to produce a Village Design Statement which outlines the wishes of Sandgate residents to preserve the unique characteristics of this seaside village. The Sandgate community recognises that 21st Century issues need to be taken into consideration. It is envisaged that the Village Design Statement will be adopted as a supplementary planning document and will be compiled by members of the community consulting with the Parish Council, Shepway District Council, Kent County Council and Kent Highways. The Sandgate Communityʼs blue sky vision includes • • • • • •

Having a Sandgate by-pass for limited periods and for local events Having a 20mph speed limit through the High Street Saying ʻnoʼ to high density housing Preserving all of our green spaces Preserving our architecture Becoming a busy sustainable business centre

These longer term wishes do not all appear in the action plan but the Sandgate community will keep them live and continue to work towards achieving them. 2.1 BEACHES Sandgate Beach came to prominence in 1539/40 when Henry VIII built Sandgate Castle to strengthen his sea defences. There were royal visits to Sandgate Castle by Henry in 1542 and by Queen Elizabeth in 1573. In the 18th century shipbuilding came to Sandgate and between 1770 and 1790 some dozen war vessels were built on the beach. The decline of shipbuilding at the end of the century coincided with a national movement to promote sea air and sea bathing as a treatment for all sorts of medical problems. Sandgate Beach, with its pure waters, was regarded as an ideal health resort and its popularity grew. Offshore activities such as swimming and rowing also became popular and in 1852 the Folkestone Rowing Club was founded and located on Sandgate Beach. From its early inception the Rowing Club has organised regattas off and has become successful in both national and international events.

sunny, tranquil days and devastating storms. Coastal erosion has always been a problem and public records reveal an enormous amount of movement and replenishment of shingle to provide protection. Between 1950 and 1990 there were many years where storms caused severe flooding and damage to the promenade and seafront properties.

On very many occasions the sea dumped tons of shingle on the Esplanade, causing its closure to traffic. Despite a substantial amount of protection work by Councils there was always a threat of storm damage. However, the situation changed in 2004 when a major protection scheme, funded by Central Government and the European Union, was approved. The work involved building a rock headland and four rock groins, raising the level of the walkway and replacing shingle. Completed in 2005, the scheme was designed to protect 2,200 homes from flooding and 700 homes from erosion between Folkestone and Hythe and to Throughout time Sandgate has enjoyed beautiful, improve general flooding protection for fifty years. Page 6

Abbreviations

SDC Shepway District Council

Sandgate Community

Sandgate Parish Council

Sandgate Society

Kent Police

FHS

Folkestone History Society

Kent Highways

KCC Kent County Council

Action

By whom

Time scale/dates

Desired Approx Cost outcomes

Source of Funds

Increase fines on those who drop litter and those who fail to clear up their dog mess Monitor the above and should things not improve impose further restrictions to keep dogs on leads Extend the period of beach cleaning to cover st September 31 – May st 1 and seek help from the Probationary Service and volunteers to clean the beach on a regular basis More bins and greater police presence

SDC

As soon as possible

Cleaner beaches Less dog fouling

PC SDC KP

SDC KP

Ongoing

PC SDC C KP PC

From September 2010

Beaches remain clean throughout year

£10,000pa

PC SDC KCC

SDC KP

Already in process

£2,000

Give pedestrians right of way on the walkway; follow National guidance ʻBe Heardʼ and ʻGive way to walkersʼ ; designate areas where cyclists dismount

PC SDC KCC Use signage to promote key messages of “be heard” and “be courteous” on walkway SDC Thames Water

As soon as is practicable

Less litter; cleaner environment Greater use of this facility

PC SDC KP PC SDC KCC

TBC Human resources. Printing

PC SDC Thames Water

Promote sea activities supporting the rowing club and working with the PC, SDC, funding bodies and local community to support this facility and create a sustainable sports hub in Sandgate Create information boards to inform visitors and the community about whatʼs on offer in Sandgate

PC SDC Rowing Club C

Start negotiations summer 2010

Increased use of beach for bathing and increased tourism Greater organised sports for all ages

To be confirmed

Sports England (plus other funding bodies)

PC SDC

Begin Summer 2010

To be confirmed

C Funding bodies

Carry forward all of the above in a Village Design Statement

PC SDC KCC

Begin Autumn 2010

All residents and visitors are informed about access to facilities in Sandgate A supplementary planning document which reflects the wishes of the Sandgate Community

Human resources

C Funding bodies

Display water quality on boards and make every possible effort to achieve Blue Flag status

Time/human resources

Human resources

With immediate effect – spring/summer 2010

Page 7

To be confirmed

2.2 BUSINESS

The business community in Sandgate plays a crucial role in creating jobs, generating wealth and giving a sense of vibrancy to the village. It would be naive to believe we can halt the progress of the big supermarkets with their bargaining power usually ensuring they can sell their products at the lowest prices. The Sandgate shops' challenge is to provide a complementary service that meets the needs of its residents. We are already seeing the opening of new retail establishments and it is important that everyone works hard to help them succeed. This can be simply as a shopper but also by offering other skills that will maximise their chances of success.

Action

By whom

Time scale/dates

Desired outcomes

Approx Cost

Source of Funds

A Village Design Statement to be put in place which reflects the changing business model and addresses issues related to the use of buildings in Sandgate. It should take into account how business premises might reflect SandgateĘźs history â&#x20AC;&#x201C; past and present

Community group

Begin Summer 2010

A supplementary planning document which meets the needs and wishes of the Sandgate community

Human resources Printing

Community funding

Create a Business Forum which encourages high standards of services provided in Sandgate

Business Community

In progress

Time

Businessmen/ women

The business community should work together for shared services Have a Sandgatewide High Speed WiFi and effective mobile phone reception for all networks

Business Community

Spring 2010

Time

Businessmen/ women

Through negotiation with providers

Begin Summer 2010

A sustainable, thriving business community which enriches the lives of residents and visitors. A strong supportive business community Good communication throughout Sandgate

To be confirmed

Business Community PC SDC KCC

Page 8

2.3 COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL INCLUDING THE ELDERLY AND YOUTH

The measure of any society is how it treats its young and old and Sandgate is no exception. The absence of facilities for the young can cause them to congregate in open spaces and, although without anti social intent, this can often be seen by others as intimidating.

It is the shared view of young and old alike that Sandgate needs facilities that will allow its residents to grow and be enriched. The Sandgate Community Trust (charity number 1136479) has been set up to manage the open spaces in Sandgate and it is their intention to provide sports equipment etc on the Military Road Recreation Ground.

Action

By whom

Time scale/dates

Desired outcomes

Approx Cost

Source of Funds

Support the restoration of the Chichester Memorial Hall Produce a welcome pack for new residents which includes a guide to activities in Sandgate.

Ongoing

To be confirmed

Funding bodies

Member of local community PC

Begin Summer 2010

A hub/meeting point for Sandgate Newcomers know what is on offer and have a better chance of getting involved in community life

Time/ human resource Printing

PC precept

Make Sandgate facilities accessible to all taking into account those with disabilities Set up a community group with representation from all age groups to improve relations and work together towards common goals

PC SDC KCC Business Community C

With immediate effect

To be confirmed

PC SDC KCC

Interreg representative PC C

In process

All members of Sandgate Community able to access facilties as far as is practicable History, architecture, exercise and nature trails set up to bridge links between High Street areas and Valley

ÂŁ100,000

Interreg

Page 9

2.4 HISTORY SANDYGEAT, as first recorded, denotes a gate or cleft in the sandstone hills through which the Enbrook flows to meet the sea. In 1539 Henry VIII ordered the building of the castle primarily for defence against Spain and France. Shipbuilding was set up here in 1773 and many ships were built for HM Navy near Sandgate's beaches. In 1794 the War Dept. purchased 229 acres of open land and Shorncliffe Camp was established on the heights overlooking Sandgate. Temporary wooden barracks were replaced over the years with more solid structures in stone, to house cavalry and artillery. In the lee of the Camp, Sandgate grows and prospers. With the Napoleonic menace, the growing presence of the Military at the camp brings life and trade to the village; lodgings, inns and taverns are in demand. Sandgate's defences are again extended with the building of Martello Towers, six within the village and the start of the Royal Military Canal was dug within our boundaries. With the passing of time, Sandgate flowers as a select and serene little watering place and endears itself to writers, artists and eccentrics among others. The census of 1841 showed that Sandgate's population had doubled, its climate, scenery and charm attracted visitors, more hotels were established and business on the Broadway was brisk. As the first World War broke out Sandgate welcomed Canadian soldiers to train at the camp, the Castle became an air raid shelter and several hospitals and convalescent homes were established to care for the severely disabled soldiers. During the second World War Sandgate suffered some bomb damage,with houses and shops badly shaken and VE day was welcomed with a party in Wilberforce Road. Normality returned and the High Street bustled with people and shops and businesses. Like so many High Streets, independent retailers have been in decline over recent years. However, we are encouraged by the popularity of our Village Store, the return of our post office and the recent opening of two new galleries, a Cycle and Coffee shop and a Craft shop, all of which are operating profitably alongside our antique shops and eateries.

Action

By whom

Time scale/dates

Desired outcomes

Approx Cost

Source of Funds

Make the social, literary and military history of Sandgate, its historical buildings and architecture more accessible by producing leaflets; more information boards; updated history page on website showing walking trail; extended use of photographic images; use of Bluetooth technology to access historical information Support and encourage other parties to develop Shorncliffe Redoubt as an attraction and educational site Extend the Blue Plaque trail

PC Local History Society SS Web site

Begin September 2010

Sandgateʼs history is used to enhance its tourist appeal and, as such, brings more visitors and trade to the village

£5,000

Funding bodies Link with Interreg

Chris Shaw

Ongoing

TBC

Funding from English Heritage?

SS FHS

Ongoing

A tourist attraction and educational resource Sandgateʼs history a tourist attraction

£2,000

Page 10

2.5 LANDSCAPE, PLANNING AND ARCHITECTURE Sandgate started out as nothing more than a track, a post road, described by Cobbett in his ʻRural Ridesʼ as late as 1823 as ʻa beautiful little place upon the beach itself'. There is no doubt that the geology has affected development, as it contains the major landslip fault lines that caused havoc in 1827 and 1893. The 20th century has accounted for much of the development which we consider may have contributed to the gradual erosion of Sandgate's quality, with the advent of the motor car, and the post WW2 housing explosion, followed by a period between the 60ʼs and 80ʼs of what we now regard as ʻgreedy developer blocks of flatsʼ and over-development. During this time, we saw the loss of many fine buildings, including the Royal Kent Hotel, demolition of which provoked the formation of The Sandgate Society (1962),who campaign still for good development in the village, and the creation of the first Conservation Areas (1972).

Action

By whom

Time scale/dates

Desired outcomes

Approx Cost

Source of Funds

Raise awareness of planning procedures and regulations via a series of awareness raising events

PC C

Begin Autumn 2010

Councillors and public more aware of issues surrounding planning applications PC are better able to assess and comment on planning issues

Training and Seminars £1,000

PC SDC KCC Funding Bodies

Support the setting up of a Design Panel and encourage community involvement Design Panel to produce guidance leaflets to householders and others, to instruct re: responsibilities especially of owners of Listed Buildings, Trees in Conservation Areas, care and maintenance of buildings, their details, and of the public realm. Ensure geotechnical surveys are taken into account with every appropriate planning application

C PC

As soon as possible

Appoint a design/conservation champion; impose strict guidance on building heights/mix/design and density, particularly with reference to housing and flats Work towards production of a Village Design Statement, that should serve as Supplementary Planning Guidance in the consideration of all Planning Applications

SDC (Planning Department) C

PC SDC KCC KH C

Work with other agencies and subgroups (History, Wildlife & Open Spaces, Traffic and Parking, Business & Community)

Time

Sandgateʼs unique character preserved and enhanced. Community have raised awareness and are better informed

TBC

PC C Funding Bodies PC

Begin Autumn 2010

As above

Time

SDC C

As soon as possible

A supplementary planning document which meets the needs and wishes of the Sandgate community

Time Printing £2,000

Page 11

2.6 TRAFFIC AND PARKING

Although its existence as a village only started in the late 18th century, Sandgate's roads and byways were not designed for the modern car, van or lorry. The numbers are increasing steadily as more and more houses are turned into multiple dwellings. The questionnaire told us that on average each household had 2 cars and this suggests that there are 3000 cars requiring a parking space. To this needs to be added the business people who come into the community each day and the visitors. It is no wonder that we have a parking problem and the following is how we will address it in the coming years:

Action

By whom

Time scale/dates

Desired outcomes

Approx Cost

Source of Funds

Lobby appropriate authority to ensure adequate parking is considered with every new planning application Introduce traffic calming in the form of electronic flashing ĘťSlow DownĘź sign at the top of Sandgate Hill; a road traffic island on the Esplanade; no HGVs; 20mph through the village with possible shared surfaces Introduce parking permits and stricter parking enforcement

PC C