[8] The listed 18th century Ark cafe in Folkestone was pulled down by Godden after claims of hurricane damage, against the wishes of local conservationists.
[10][11] After his purchase of the park, Godden was able to secure European and regional grant aid to assist in an initial £3m redevelopment.
In the mid-1990s Godden's Chamelion Group proposed a major leisure complex on the derelict Ramsgate Hoverport with 250 holiday apartments, an indoor ski slope, swimming pool, and other amenities, which was proposed to be part-funded with European Union development grants,[20][21] the scheme led to the demolition of the old terminal, but negotiations broke down with Thanet District Council in 1996.
[17] Godden plead guilty to bribery of a councillor on Thanet District Council in March 1991, and was given a six-month suspended jail term, as well as a £25k fine.
[24][25] Property worth £100,000 was taken and Godden's insurance company offered a £10,000 reward for information leasing to the conviction of the gang.