This is the November 2022 update of the summer works which is the preparation for the continuation of the important project which started in Folkstone ending at Scots Float Sluice on Military Road. Progress made to date: They have completed the diversion of an existing water main, enabling the construction of a haul road from the A259 into the work area; installed a speed restriction to both, A259 and Military Road to ease the traversing of construction vehicles on and off the site; installed stock and reptile/GCN (Gray Crested Newt) fencing to the majority of the site, investigation works at the Network Rail Bridge abutments, adjacent to Kings Avenue; completed the reptile trapping to all work areas north of the Railway Bridge, allowing the commencement of the main embankment works in early spring 2023 and set up the main Site Compound area within the arable field at Scot’s Float Sluice.
The newsletter reports that “all reptiles are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 (as amended), making it illegal to intentionally kill or injure a common reptile. This has led to our putting in environmental protection measures as required by our planning consent.” The plan is to have a drop-in centre on the site which will be open on Mondays and Wednesdays between March and November 2023. It will be open for the public to see the works being done, get information and updates. However, if individuals would like to have a look earlier, there is a possibility to visit from December 7 to March 1, 2023 on Wednesdays between 9-1.
During the summer the company did engage with the community by presenting information about the project to East Guldeford parish council and talked at Rye Town Hall to the councillors on December 5. The Project team intends to share these presentations on a regular basis and they invite anybody who wants more information or attend a drop-in day to contact: Emma Barrett (VolkerStevin Customer Experience Advisor) on 07471141289 or email: Emma.Barrett@volkerstevin.co.uk The site will be closed December 21 – 28 and reopens again January 11, 2023.
Image Credits: Chris Lawson , Heidi Foster .