Local developer William Brown who has worked with No Use Empty on various projects is now transforming this prime town centre building.
Queens House which sits neatly on the corner of Sandgate Road and Guildhall Street has long been considered an eyesore having been boarded up for the past year.
William Brown is set to transform Queens House in Folkestone town centre into 32 apartments and rename it ‘Master William’s Place’ in memory of his late son, William Brown Jr.
Mr. Brown, who recently acquired the leasehold for the former office block is determined to make his mark and regenerate this blot on the landscape. The project, which already gained planning approval for 27 apartments, was granted permission by Folkestone and Hythe District Council for an additional 5 apartments on 15 November 2024. On completion this “underutilised and unloved” building will be regenerated into modern flats, some of which will offer stunning sea views.
Renovation work has already begun, with new scaffolding now surrounding the building. Mr. Brown plans to complete the project within 18 months. The new apartments will include one- and two-bedroom properties available for rent, with a focus on affordability for local people.
Mr. Brown believes the redevelopment is essential for the high street. “The eyesore isn’t helpful for the shops nearby. With Wilko and the job centre being empty, we don’t need another empty unit on our high street”.
The community has shown incredible support for the project, and Mr. Brown is confident that the new development will bring a fresh, modern look to the area. “As part of the purchase agreement, I have agreed that the front façade and all the scaffolding will be down in seven months, meaning all the purple bits will be gone. It will look modern and lovely,” he added.
NUE cannot wait to see the finished transformation which will make a valuable contribution to help regenerate this end of the town centre.