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The Port of Dover has unveiled its latest outdoor recreational space overlooking the waterfront: Clock Tower Square.
It is another major part of the Dover Western Docks Revival regeneration project to open to the public.
It was opened yesterday (Monday) with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
The 1,000 sq m (quarter acre) square is at the beginning of the Marina Curve.
It combines fresh design features with artefacts from Dover’s history.
Doug Bannister, chief executive of the Port of Dover said: “Clock Tower Square is a destination for the future: it capitalises on Dover’s inspirational heritage and iconic scenery to form a modern outdoor community hub that’s rich in history.
"With the new Marina Pier already open, the Marina Curve coming soon and our recent beach re-profiling work completed, we are pleased to be making more leisure space available to the public during a time when the outdoors has never been appreciated more.”
Dave Herrod, DWDR Programme Director added: “After years of planning and construction, the new design perfectly combines sustainability with ecology, history and public engagement, creating a fantastic site that’s ready for future generations to enjoy.”
Clock Tower Square pays tribute to the previous Prince of Wales pier with original artefacts and plaques dating back over 100 years on display.
Granite coping stones from the old quayside form new benches, lamp posts have been refurbished and the original paving has been re-laid to reflect the old pier layout. The original gates have been reinstated and new public toilets are also now available.
Dover MP Natalie Elphicke MP said: “Clock Tower Square is a really great place for people to sit down, stroll and really enjoy the view across the Port.
"It’s a major investment by the Port of Dover for our community which will help to increase visitors and boost tourism.
"With the Council’s successful multi-million bid to improve the links between the town and the waterfront, this all looks set to come together to make Dover a great destination for people to come and see.”
Cllr Trevor Bartlett, leader of Dover District Council, said: “The opening of Clock Tower Square marks a key stage in the transformation of Dover Waterfront into a modern and vibrant public space.
" The Port worked closely with our heritage planners and I’m delighted to see the attention to detail on many of the heritage features retained and restored from the Prince of Wales Pier.
“With outstanding views of the busy harbour, Dover Castle and White Cliffs of Dover it will be another outdoor space that is much valued by the local community and visitors alike.
" I hope it will also stimulate more commercial investment on the waterfront.”
DWDR, valued at £250 million, is the single biggest investment ever undertaken by the Port of Dover.
It is a continuing programme and has included the York Street and Townwall Street roundabout being turned into a junction in 2017.
The Marina Pier was opened in May 2019 and Dover Cargo Terminal West, close to the Marina Curve, opened that December.
And last year a planning application was submitted to Dover District Council for motel, pool restaurant and bar out of shipping containers at the waterfront.
