Solution to Folkestone's 'green space' problem there for all to see

The proposed redevelopment of Folkestone racecourse to form part of a new garden town continues to stir up controversy, with those involved accused of backtracking on promises to set aside 40 per cent of the land for ‘green space’.

Emails obtained by Kent Online show Folkestone and Hythe District Council and Folkestone Racecourse Limited agreeing to scrap the pledge, with Stephen Higgins, the former property director at Arena Racing Company, owner of Folkestone, calling it “an unrealistic target”.

A spokesman stated the 40 per cent figure remained in the council's Framework masterplan, a non-binding blueprint which can be subject to change depending on economic, social and political factors.