Bosses were fined £650 and have now installed scaffolding around the unit “as a precursor to carrying out the required works”, according to FHDC.
Although Asda has never occupied the shop itself, it has been an anchor tenant at the nearby Bouverie Place shopping centre since the facility opened in 2007.
The New Folkestone Society – a charity which aims to make the town “more attractive to live and work” – says it had previously “expressed concern” over the condition of the building.
Vice-chairman Mark Hourahane says the group is pleased the site will now be improved as Asda has confirmed it is “continuing to search” for new tenants.
“It is likely the frontage dates from the 1860s and, although the ground floor has been modernised, it still retains much of its original charm on the upper floors,” he said.
“It was disappointing not only to see a significant building sit empty, but that its appearance was further deteriorated by vandals.
“It is a shame that it has taken such extreme action to get Asda to do something about the condition of the building.
“We look forward to seeing it restored to its former glory, retaining its attractive upper levels and perhaps with something a bit more in keeping on the ground floor.”
The building – situated opposite Folkestone’s former Debenhams – has stood empty since Store Twenty One, a discount clothing and homeware retailer, left in 2016.
Despite its prominent location, the shop fell into disrepair, with pictures showing smashed windows, graffiti and fallen rubble as vandals accessed the site.
Officers from FHDC served Asda with the notice in February 2023 under Section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, and stated the works should be completed within six months.
They put together a 13-point list detailing the required improvements, including the removal of graffiti, vegetation and flaking paint, and ensuring the site stays “in a neat and tidy condition”.
But a spokesman for the authority said: “Up until September 2024, we exchanged communication with Asda with a view of resolution without the need for proceedings, however, despite reassurances being provided, no works were commenced.
“Asda has now installed scaffolding as a precursor to carrying out the required works to improve the appearance of the building.”
After admitting the charge in court, Asda was also ordered to cover the legal costs incurred by the council of £1,950, and a victim surcharge of £260.
In response, the chain said it has “carried out a number of works in the last couple of years to maintain the site and ensure it is secure following incidents of anti-social behaviour”.
“We accept the ruling and are committed to undertaking further work that will improve the external appearance of the building,” a spokesman added.
“We continue to search for new tenants as well as exploring opportunities with local community groups.”
