Attendees: Tony Hill, Richard Wallace, Dan Keeling, Jenny Barraclough, Deryn Cutting, Jo File, Marie Helene Hunter, Mick Williamson, Alison White, Linda Bauer, Patty Key, Elizabeth Halstead, Frank Bond, Chris Phillips, Penny Shepherd, Jan McNeil, Nicky Tolson

Apologies:  David Noble, Howard Holt, Tony Quarrington, Brenda & Tony Gilbert, Eddie & Rita Lee, Belinda Walker, Roger Joyce, Dorothy Douse, Michael Foad

Tony Hill – Chaired meeting and welcomed everyone who introduced themselves.

  • David Crocker – a number of Go Folkestone members attended David’s funeral earlier in the day. His family were very grateful.  Tony Hill is selecting articles by David for reprinting in the magazine as a tribute.  RW suggested a specific Memory Booklet/Edition.  There will be a tribute in the Go Folkestone Magazine with some of his great stories.
  • Planning: Shorncliffe Road/Earls Avenue.  GF Member has raised an objection to the detail.   Three storeys building with 6 flats.  GF does not object to the development however in the current climate is concerned about the mature tree coverage that development will negatively impact of already protected trees most of which are only just visitable from the highway.   Same developer who rejigged Royal Victoria Hospital.   RW has asked if the Kent Highways tree officer be involved with regards access to the block of flats.  Linda Bauer commented that the trees are wonderful and must be at least 100 years old.  Parking and access two issues of concern.  NFS will write regarding same.
  • Road of Remembrance. Continuing concern about the poor signage. MHH previously endeavoured to follow existing signage which is unsatisfactory.  David Noble is currently on holiday and will contact Polly Blakemore on his return.   Dan Keeling volunteered that the road system has been developed without consideration to current traffic requirements and that we inherited a system designed for lorries to access the now defunct and non-existent ferry service.  Patty Key “go to train station and take orange bus to Harbour Arm – it’s free’.
  • Electrical recycling. Committee agreed that group should go ahead and print leaflets within agreed budget.  Mick Williamson had a very constructive meeting with Diane Dever.   There is still uncertainty where the recycling group will muster for public to drop off items. A leaflet drop is planned for 24th August with the aim of 14th September first collection date.  An email to Vick Nelson to enlist help from Napier people to help with gazebo erection.  Mick Williamson and Alison White have completed a rota form and now looking for volunteers to support on Saturdays.  Email to members requesting that they contact MW and AW regarding rota duty.
  • Foundation Stone. TH had conversation with Paul Marshall regarding proposed site of board which will be size A1. Quote from Legends for 2 boards £369.84.   Small original sign has been retrieved thanks to the gardeners.    QR code to include link to Marie Lloyd words, Snobby Folkestone, which will be read and hopefully music background, if can be found.  Meeting 29th QR code to be directed to GF Website.
  • Leas Viewing Balcony. The balcony has been renovated and painted. Paul Marshall has had official confirmation from Folkestone Estate to have lines drawn up pointing towards specific viewpoints as pictures not suitable.   QR code to be organised.   TH to advise on different techniques and materials that can be used. Booklet is being prepared by Tony Quarrington
  • Folkestone Library most likely to be repositioned in town centre as Grace Hill building will probably be converted into residential. Repositioning of library from hub to high street may be more appropriate for footfall and to support strengthening the High Street.  Consideration discussed regarding the bus station move to Shellons Street.  Go Folkestone continue to be a dissenting voice.
    • Rumour that Boots may be closing as they are closing a number of branches nationwide. Not confirmed.   If it happens it will add to the demise of the high street.  Lidl’s may be moving.
  • Sports Centre. Discussion to be undertaken with Folkestone Estates.   Ann Berry is contesting swimming pool close down.  Administrators involved.  Discourage from using brown fields.
  • Jan McNeil updated on the sad state of the poppies that have been removed. An elderly man has been arrested. 7 panels worth of poppies had been removed and binned.
  • Committee meeting day change from Monday two days ahead of general meeting. Poll committee members with proposal to meet first week of month, probably Thursday.     Now confirmed Committee meeting 1st Thurs of month.
  • Venue for GF general meeting. MHH has suggested Kollective near the Harbour and TH has offered the Masonic Hall.   Woodford Hall on The Bayle was suggested.   The Burlington, Daniel Sanguessippe has offered space for £30-£50 per month inc plate of sandwiches and use of the bar.   In return he was offered free advertising space in GF Magazine. Other suggestions, The Grand/Keppells Bar & The Grand Burstin.
  • Arrangements for AGM 13th David Noble will bring this together on his return from holiday.
  • GF 25th Anniversary – TH proposed that Leas Cliff Hall be approached for a substantial event in 2026. Majority agreed that this would be an appropriate venue and would support.
  • AOB: Jenny Barraclough asked for news update on the bus station on which nothing further could be added.
  • RW requested photographs (horizontal/landscape) for 2025 calendar. Must be of Folkestone taken at any time, any year.
  • Elizabeth Halstead updated the meeting on the Cheriton Road changes.

Date of next meeting 11th September.

 

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