Plans Announced For Buckland Paper Mill Redevelopment

Plans have been announced for the redevelopment of the former Buckland Paper Mill site in Dover. The proposals have been drawn up by Gillcrest Homes, the development partner for the South East England Development Agency.

The redevelopment of this site is seen as a priority by SSEDA, Gillcrest and Dover District Council and will provide an opportunity to produce a sustainable, mixed-use development with a dedicated community space that will improve the appeal and vitality of the Buckland area and provide additional facilities for existing residents, including access to the riverside not previously enjoyed.

The scheme will incorporate a wide range of new uses including housing, community facilities, a convenience store and nursing home.

Apart from the new buildings, Gillcrest Homes also want the scheme to benefit the wider community by improving the visual appearance of the site, providing a cycle route and safe pedestrian route along the river and providing an attractive urban square with a range of useful facilities.

The proposed development consists of approximately 210 private homes, 90 affordable homes, 5,000 square feet of community space, 16,500 square feet of commercial space including a bar/restaurant and convenience store, and a 60-bedroom nursing home. The development will create approximately 100 new jobs.

The existing mill buildings, fronting Crabble Hill, will be converted into private apartments, over commercial premises, and the clock tower will be retained.

Private housing and flats will be built on both sides of the river, and a new footbridge will be provided over the river.

Pedestrians will have access from Crabble Meadow, by the tunnel leading out to Crabble Avenue, and from Buckland Bridge, next to St Andrew's Church.

A planning application is due to be submitted in September, with work starting on site next summer, and with the first units completed by the end of 2007. The ancitipated period of development is six years.

Anyone requiring further information is invited to contact Gillcrest Homes on 0845 130 0070, SEEDA on 01634 899 900 and Neighbourhoods Initiatives on 0870 7700 339.