A historic waterfront landmark fenced off “without warning” has sparked concern about a lack of communication by council bosses over the ambitious renovation project.
Faversham Town Council has acted quickly to erect fencing around the Town Quay land after acquiring the site, which comprises a 15th-century listed building, last month.
But the authority is under fire for its swift move, with concerns about the timing and how it might affect one of the town’s biggest events – the annual Hop Festival on August 30 and 31.
The Quay pub has made unofficial use of the green space around the TS Hazard building in recent years in order to manage the crowds outside its pub, which can often spill onto the road during the event.
Town councillor Rob Crayford (Lab) said: “It’d be a lot easier if they said it’s going to impact the whole festival, and people could plan around it.
“I think they haven’t thought about the whole festival, or thought about the Quay.
“There’s no legal right-of-way to use that space, but the town council have bought it for the town on behalf of using town money so residents have bought that land, technically.”
When contacted by KentOnline to address the concerns about the area being blocked off, a council spokesperson said a pedestrian gate has been put in place to allow access to the creek to be continued.
In a statement, they added: “Faversham Town Council has started improvement works at Town Quay.
“To ensure the safety of the public and allow access for contractors’ vehicles, the site has been temporarily fenced off.
“However, the moorings at Town Quay remain open, and a pedestrian access gate is in place to allow continued access through the site.
“The council thanks residents and visitors for their understanding during this period of work.”
However, Cllr Crayford says he has been left disappointed by the lack of information from the town hall about the renovations.
“While I wholeheartedly support the improvements aimed at enhancing our community’s waterfront, it is crucial that the town council communicates transparently with residents throughout this process,” he added.
“I have called on the town council to address concerns and communicate with residents effectively
“We must learn from past lessons and ensure that involving the community is at the heart of what we do.
“Open dialogue and regular updates will foster understanding and support as we move forward with this important project.”
Constructed circa 1478, TS Hazard is a timber-framed Grade II*- listed structure, and was originally the old town warehouses before being turned into a “Training Ship” by the Sea Cadets.
It is hoped TS Hazard could, in the future, accommodate a cafe and serve as a venue for events and heritage displays to generate income.
Further plans have not yet been announced by Faversham Town Council is calling for residents to put forward their views about the Town Quay Project on its website.
Swale Borough Council offloaded the site at no cost to help prevent the building from falling into disrepair.
FTC told KentOnline it is working to see the building restored and back in use in five years’ time – although a firm timeline has not been issued.
The next 12 months will be spent making TS Hazard watertight and safe, with planning applications to follow this.
While the cost of the project is expected to be in the millions, it is hoped the project could be primarily funded through grants and fundraising, reducing the burden on taxpayers.
