In May 2025, we completed the purchase of Folkestone Sports Centre, fully aware of the scale of the challenge ahead. From the outset, we have been, and remain, committed to returning this much-loved facility to the community.

There have been many challenges along the way, but our team has shown unwavering passion, energy and dedication in giving the centre the best possible chance to thrive. We have also been incredibly fortunate to work alongside key partners, forming strong relationships that continue to drive the project forward with a clear, community-focused approach.

The recent news of a generous grant from Folkestone and Hythe District Council has provided a significant boost to the project, particularly in relation to the swimming pool. It is widely recognised that swimming pools are not commercially viable on their own and are often supported by other facilities such as gyms and cafés. Despite this, their importance to communities, especially in coastal areas, cannot be overstated. They are places where people learn vital life skills, build confidence, form friendships and create lasting memories. This is why we worked so hard to secure the initial funding to purchase the site and protect its future as a swimming facility.

This project means a great deal to everyone involved and we know how much this facility means to the local community. We see every comment, read every article and take all feedback on board. With projects of this significance, there can sometimes be misinformation alongside the positive support. From day one, we have been committed to ensuring all communications are clear, factual, and positive, and we will continue to uphold that approach.

We had planned to provide an update following the announcement of the grant, recognising the hard work of councillors, partners, and our own team in securing this vital funding.

However, on the same day just hours after receiving this positive news, we were deeply saddened to be made aware of a break-in at the site. After being alerted to unusual activity, we attended and discovered significant damage. While we are still working with the police and gathering full details, we believe it is important and part of our duty to the local community who value this facility to share what we know so far.

Individuals gained entry through forced access, including breaking reinforced windows, and caused extensive damage throughout the facility – most notably in the main entrance area. The evidence suggests this was a deliberate act of vandalism, with nothing appearing to be stolen but with considerable destruction caused.

Windows overlooking the swimming pool have been completely smashed using items found on site, including fire extinguishers, chairs and fixtures removed from the building. As a result, the pool has been filled with debris, including broken glass and other materials. We are now working closely with specialist contractors to assess the damage and establish the process required to make the pool safe so that work can continue. This is only part of the overall damage sustained.

Since the incident, our team has worked tirelessly to ensure the project remains on track. With the support of our delivery partners and the police, we have significantly increased security measures to better protect the site.

At this stage, we do not anticipate any impact on our planned opening timelines. However, the incident has meant we’ve had to adapt parts of our plan, and we are exploring additional support to ensure progress can continue without delay.

As a charity, we care deeply about the community and its access to high-quality facilities. We will not allow the actions of a few to impact the opportunities available to many.