Work to create the first phase of a multi-million pound seafront development has re-started after construction was temporarily halted due to the outbreak of Covid-19.

The scheme is set to transform the look of Folkestone's coastline with 84 new luxury homes being built on the beach and close to the Leas Lift and Lower Leas Coastal Park.

Initially work started in January, but the building site was shutdown in March following a company-wide closure by main contractor Jenner, who are also behind the development of Folkestone's new urban sports park in Tontine Street.

But now, following the four week suspension, workers are back on site and are following new 'enhanced safety measures' put in place due to the coronavirus crisis.

Ella Brocklebank, business development manager for Folkestone-based Jenner, said: "Construction work to phase one of the Folkestone seafront development, a unique development of 84 luxury new homes, has now resumed following a self-imposed four week temporary closure of all construction sites throughout the Jenner business in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"With the project in such early stages we are confident we will soon regain momentum and anticipate that the recent site closure and any delays associated with the pandemic will have a minimal effect on the overall building programme."

Miss Brocklebank ensured that "safety will never be compromised in attempting to regain lost time".

She added: "Our return to construction is carefully planned for and a gradual process to ensure everyone has adequate time to become accustomed with our new enhanced safety measures and space to safety operate in line with social distancing guidelines.

"At present there is minimal number present on site including our management team and this will slowly increase over the next few weeks.

"Early signs are incredibly positive as everyone is adapting well and adhering to our new ways of working and we are now making good progress with this exciting project.

"The next project milestone is commencement of piling which is anticipated later this month and all local residents will be notified of these works in advance.

"As always, safety remains our absolute priority ahead of any economic benefit and remain committed to keeping all those we are responsible and working on our behalf safe and well."

The Folkestone Harbour and Seafront Development Company - led by philanthropist Sir Roger De Haan - are behind the massive regeneration scheme.

Phase one includes the creation of the 84 homes - 20 town houses, four duplexes and 60 apartments - plus private gardens, landscaped areas and a new piazza.

But eventually the development will run from the coastal park to the already-renovated Harbour Arm and will include 1,000 homes, cafes, restaurants and public spaces.

Outline planning permission for the whole scheme was secured in 2015 and permission for the first stage was granted at the end of 2018.

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