Key improvements to renovate the Townwall Street underpass under the A20 in Dover are getting underway this week.
Work is set to complement the multi million pound development of the Dover Beacon project alongside it, that continues to build upwards for the future.
A whole range of regeneration initiatives continue to move forward for the district, and the renovation of the underpass is part of work to help better connect the high street and the waterfront, and to support and promote investment for the future.
The underpass renovation follows major news that DDC secured Future High Street Funding in 2021 to redevelop the Bench Street area and to improve the underpass on Townwall Street in Dover.
Works on the underpass include:
- New bold and creative visuals on the walls with a ‘Dover Time Tunnel’ theme
- Resurfacing of the footpaths and cycleways
- Repainting of handrails, walls and ceilings
- Renewing cycle lane markings
- Replacing of broken tiles and drainage grills, and cleaning light fittings
- Continued working with a range of partners to renovate and maintain the underpass for the future
Since the award of the Future High Street Funding, DDC has been successful in its bid for Levelling Up Funding (Round 2). Plans for a Creative Centre in Bench Street will now be delivered as part of the Dover Beacon project, bringing together plans for a Creative Centre, Education Campus, and Business Centre into one iconic building.
The underpass works follow a range of consultation in 2023 through events and an online survey. It is anticipated that the enhancements will be completed by the end of 2025.
Cllr Kevin Mills, Leader of Dover District Council said: “We are delighted to see these works starting. A lighter and brighter underpass will help to link the town centre and the seafront, and complement the landmark development of The Bench building within the Dover Beacon project, as we continue to develop a vibrant mix of business, education, and cultural opportunities in a creative environment. This is another exciting development as we continue to see major projects coming together for the future of the district.”
For more information on regeneration in Dover, please see our Regeneration pages, or for more information on the underpass project, please see the Underpass Improvement Project pages on the DDC website.
Posted on 20 June 2025