The Port of Dover, in conjunction with Octavia Estates, has submitted a planning application to convert the iconic Waterloo Crescent building into 17 apartments on the seafront. The renovation will conserve the unique character of this Grade II listed building, whilst updating it with modern features and facilities throughout to restore its original charm.

The Port has gone through major transformation in the past five years, with the neighbouring Marina Curve supporting local culture and heritage through new recreational opportunities and events. Dover and the wider Southeast coast are becoming increasingly popular destinations to live and visit, with excellent links to London and the rest of the Garden of England.

Jason Ransley, Head of Property at the Port of Dover said:

“Waterloo Crescent sits at the heart of the Dover Waterfront, and at a time when the Port, Dover and surrounding coastal areas are going through re-development, it’s the perfect opportunity to restore the building to support local economic growth, whilst making Dover more accessible to a growing community. “

“We thank our partners Octavia Estates for working with us on these exciting plans, and Dover District Council for their support since the pre-application was made at the end of 2024.”

The Port’s close relationship with the last remaining tenants, the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club, dates back over 100 years. A range of teams from across the Port will continue to support members as they transition over to their new location in the refurbished building next to the Clocktower on the Marina Curve.

The Commodore of Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club commented:

“We are happy that the future of the Yacht Club has been officially announced, and I look forward to working with our members to help them settle into their new base.”

“We have been in positive talks with the Port throughout 2024, and thank them for taking forward our proposed design, which also compliments the new and modern facilities available across the Waterfront and other sports clubs situated there.”

The Waterloo Crescent building will be restored with a new roof, cladding repairs, lifts and staircases. The apartments, which will cater for a wide range of occupiers, will range in size from one to three bedrooms. Construction is planned to start in November and will last 16 months.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• The Port of Dover is closing the gap every day between the UK and the world by connecting trade, travel, visitors and communities locally-globally, collaborating with local and international partners to create a more seamless, sustainable and tech-enabled port.
• As the UK’s busiest international ferry port and a vital gateway for the movement of people and trade, Dover handles £144 billion of trade per year, 33% of UK trade in goods with the EU and welcomes over 11 million passengers.
• Dover is an award-winning cruise port, delivering world class travel and visitor experiences to over 20 different cruise lines each year. With a growing and diversifying cargo business operating from state-of-the-art facilities, a new marina which is at the centre of the revived waterfront, plus opportunities for further expansion in the future, Dover’s proud history dating back 400 years has a new modern twist.