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A Kent seaside town recently crowned the best place to visit in the UK is now pushing ahead with a major £20million redevelopment. Folkestone, which topped Time Out's 2025 list of must-see destinations, is in the middle of a large transformation aimed at creating a greener, more welcoming town centre.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council began work on the scheme in April 2025, with the full project due to be completed by summer 2026. Councillors say the improvements are progressing well and that the next phase of construction will begin shortly. One of the most notable changes will be the removal of the old bus station at Bouverie Square.

The disused shelters and planter walls are currently being taken down so the area can be reshaped into a new public space.

The council describes the site as a future "green heart" for the town, designed to offer residents and visitors a calmer, more attractive centre.

In a statement, the council said the redevelopment will create "a much more inviting space, including a play area, to be enjoyed by residents and visitors".

New planting and "greenscaping" will be added, while the revised layout will move the bus stops to the south side of Middelburg Square.

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The one-way traffic system will also be removed to make it safer for people on foot.

According to the council's website, more than 40% of the overall project has already been completed.

However, some disruption is expected to continue for the coming months.

Parts of Bouverie Square remain fenced off, and the public toilets are temporarily closed while refurbishment work takes place. They are due to reopen in late spring.

James Butcher, the council's cabinet member for place plan, heritage, tourism and district economy, said: "There is now real momentum with the Folkestone - A Brighter Future project and Bouverie Square is set to become a focal point for the community.

"While there is short-term disruption, I'm pleased we can deliver refurbished toilets as part of this exciting next chapter."

The regeneration follows a surge of national attention for Folkestone, which was named the UK's top place to visit in 2025 by Time Out.

Explaining the decision, the publication said: "The Kent seaside town is as vibrant as ever, packed with colourful indie shops, buzzy art galleries, exciting restaurants and characterful pubs."