Abstract

Hop on the train, but which one? : Folkeston

"Ever heard of Folkestone?" asks the author and goes on to describe the efforts made to enliven this sleepy forgotten town. The primary role in the scheme is played by the Creative Foundation (CF) set up by the local billionaire Roger de Haana."The most palpable outcome of the foundation's activity is the Creative Quarter. CF picked a perfect location for it — the oldest and at the same time the most decrepit part of town, forming a triangle between two streets. As opposed to similar districts arising spontaneously, this time — instead of waiting for the bohemians to move in, the decision has been made to invite them. CF is buying one house after another and lets them out to artists, with the guarantee of a fixed rent." There's still another facet to the revitalisation scheme: the Green Wave project by Foster +Partners.“ lt proposes to build 1440 luxury flats in blocks along the wharf, demolish completely the existing port and erect a campus instead, with semicircular commercial facilities around a marina for yachts and a ferry terminal. The project is, however, criticised by the Remembrance Line organisation, whose president points out that people were not aware they were voting for pulling the harbour facilities down. Over the last 165 years, the harbour bridge, the harbour station and the wharf have become part of the local tradition and are a unique technological monument."
The article describes the potential and dangers of involving the art community during revitalisation of coastal towns on the example of Folkestone. The primary role in the scheme is played by the private organisation Creative Foundation (CF) set up by the local entrepreneur Roger de Haan. The most palpable outcome of the foundation's activity is the Creative Quarter – the oldest and at the same time the most decrepit part of town. The pros and cons were confronted against the New Charter of Athens – proposed by the European Council of Town Planners.