The Regeneration of Cheriton Recreation Ground

At a Folkestone Town Council Meeting on 28th April 2008, young people from Cheriton came to ask Councillors for better provisions for young people in the Cheriton area. In response the Town Council and a local youth and community engagement project, 'What4', began working with the young people in partnership with Shepway District Council.

Together they formed the Cheriton Young Persons Working Group to look at local regeneration of parks and leisure space in Cheriton.

With the initial phase of the consultation for the proposed new youth play facilities at Cheriton Recreation Ground completed, the Working Group have been able to consult and assess the needs and wants of the local community in respect of their park.

Summary of Survey Results

It was immediately clear that residents both young and old had common goals when it came to the regeneration of the park. Below is what residents would most like to see in their park:

1. Installation of benches/picnic area, some with shelter adjacent to flower beds and landscaping

2. Skate and BMX facilities to be given a priority within the scheme

3. Improved and increased lighting which will subsequently improve security

4. Toddler and children's play/adventure play area with upgraded equipment that includes attention across age ranges

5. Preservation of green open space with clear walking paths, landscaping, flower beds and good grounds maintenance

6. Consideration be given to the provision of park warden or equivalent in the long term.

What Next?

These results will form the basis of the next stage of the project. With the involvement of the local community partners, a park layout plan will be created and a development plan which will be prioritised according to funding over the next couple of years. The Working Group, with the help of the Young People, will be sourcing funding streams to add to the money already committed from the District and Town Councils to help bring the master plan to life.

If you have any questions about his project please contact Liz Timmins at Folkestone Town Council on 01303 257946 or liz.timmins@folkestone-tc.gov.uk.