Frequently asked questions
Construction
Who is delivering this project?
Gustavia and its Belgian partner Life Tree Group, development companies specialised in coastal residential projects, will deliver the restored Leas Pavilion and the new-build seafront residence. Ant Yapi UK is the project’s main contractor. Hollaway, Hoare Lea, Manhire, Arcadis and BTP are the project’s appointed architect and consultants.
How many apartments are being built?
The residence will comprise 91 sea view apartments all with high-end specifications such as natural stone façade, Schüco windows and Miele appliances.
How tall will the building be?
The apartment block will contain nine storeys – comprising five full storeys, with setbacks to the upper four storeys.
How will you be managing site disruptions such as deliveries and noise?
If any disruptions arise they will be resolved in accordance with a construction management plan approved by Folkestone and Hythe District Council. Neighbours will be kept informed regularly by way of a monthly newsletter.
What will be the environmental impact of construction on the surrounding area?
Ant Yapi UK is a member of the Considerate Contractors Scheme, a voluntary membership body aimed at minimising disruption to neighbours via a set of target scores that is monitored throughout construction. Also, noise, dust and traffic management will be coordinated in accordance with the restrictions of Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Kent County Council, which is already outlined in the construction management plan to minimise any disruption and to ensure the works are undertaken in a controlled manner within the permitted limitations.
Will the Leas Pavilion have its own car park?
Yes. The Leas Pavilion will have 62 underground parking spaces. Of these, 60 spaces will be available for the residents, with two car parking spaces having shared electric cars.
What hours will the construction workers be on site?
Monday to Friday, 8am – 5.30pm; Saturday 8am – 1pm. No work shall be carried out on Sundays or bank holidays without relevant permissions.
Restoration
How will the Pavilion be restored?
The pavilion will be restored according to the heritage planning conditions which require as many of its original features to be rescued. Historical elements that are going to be retained as original will be carefully removed to keep them damage-free during main building works. These will then be reassembled in order to match the pavilion’s original interior and exterior aesthetic.
How long will it take to restore the pavilion?
The Leas Pavilion project, which includes the residential development, will take an estimated 27 months to complete, delivering the Leas Pavilion in the summer of 2024.
It looks like the pavilion has been completed demolished, is this the case?
No. Preservation work involves the careful dismantling of a number of the building’s key exterior/interior artefactual features. For example, each stone that makes up the building’s distinctive terracotta façade is being individually removed and transported offsite for cleaning and refurbishment. The iron gate at the main entrance and stained-glass windows which form part of the pavilion’s distinctive entrance will also be subject to the same restorative process. Demolition is related to the structure in order to strengthen the frame that is in urgent need of repair before the restored elements are re-installed to ensure the Pavilion can stand well into the future.
Is the contractor appointed a specialist in restoration?
In the past five years Ant Yapi UK has undertaken and successfully completed the renovation of four, grade II-listed properties, hence its appointment as contractor for the Leas Pavilion project.
Community
Once completed, will the Pavilion be open to the general public?
Yes, the community will have the right to use the pavilion’s reception area for hosting community events such as musical performances, art, cultural events, talks and plays.
Will the site hoarding remain on the pavement throughout construction?
In line with public health and safety regulations, the site hoarding will remain in its current pavement position during the construction process.
How will the restoration of the Pavilion benefit the community?
We’re fully aware that Leas Pavilion holds many happy memories for the people of Folkestone. These memories will survive as we carefully return this beautiful pavilion to its former glory of 1902 within a refurbished structure that will become an architectural landmark for the town’s seafront.
How can we receive updates on the construction process?
We are committed to keeping the community updated on the construction process. We will be updating the local community at regular intervals via letters delivered by Ant Yapi UK. If you have registered for updates via the website we will also keep you updated on progress via e-newsletters. You can also find out the latest news via our website and social channels.
Where can I reserve an apartment?
To reserve an apartment or for more information on the Leas Pavilion development, visit: leas-pavilion.co.uk.
If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us via community@leas-pavilion.co.uk