Demonstrators in 2023 keen to keep Folkestone Central Library Open Photo : Ray Duff –
Folkestone’s beloved Central Library on Grace Hill, shuttered since 2022, could soon reopen its doors as a multi-faceted community and cultural centre.
A powerful coalition, led by Creative Folkestone and key community partners, has launched an ambitious bid to breathe new life into the iconic building. Opened in 1888, the library is a piece of local history that sadly fell victim to closure by Kent County Council (KCC) and now requires extensive, vital repairs.
The proposal isn’t just about restoring a building; it’s about restoring a heart to the community. The plan is for Creative Folkestone and local groups to collaborate with KCC to secure crucial central government funding. This investment would facilitate the much-needed repairs and transform the space into a true multi-use hub.
While the building would retain a modern library function, the new vision includes dedicated areas for education, support for creative industries, and versatile spaces for community events. The district council has already thrown its support behind the plan, signalling strong local backing for bringing this historic venue back into public service.
Cllr Mike Blakemore, Cabinet Member for Community and Collaboration said: “Creative Folkestone and Sunflower House have together come up with an imaginative bid that would give Grace Hill library an exciting new future. We have supported this proposal from the start and I am thrilled to have seen it take shape. Creativity and community are the lifeblood of Folkestone and what could be better than combining them with learning in the shape of a newly restored library? I sincerely hope Kent County Council accepts the bid so that we can see Grace Hill open its doors again after so long.”
The building was placed on the open market by KCC in August.