Folkestone & Hythe District Council wants the new Lower Leas Coastal Park play area to be awesome. That’s why it wants as many people as possible to share their views ahead of the first major refurbishment of the Fun Zone since it was first opened in 2000.
With the remaining original equipment heading towards the end of its shelf life, it’s a perfect opportunity to find out what residents – especially families and young people – want from the district’s flagship play area. A questionnaire covering a wide range of topics including types of play, accessibility and themes has been launched on 19 December.
Cllr Jeremy Speakman, Cabinet Member for Assets and Operations, said:
“This will be a major investment, and we’re working on trying to secure extra funding for the project, so we obviously want to get it right.
“All ideas will be considered so please do get involved by completing the questionnaire. Your valuable input will help make the Lower Leas Coastal Park play area an awesome place to visit for decades to come.”
The council want the new equipment to replicate the stature, quality design and materials of what it replaces, while also sitting respectfully within its environment and minimising ecological impacts. A refurbishment would also enable improved accessibility at the Green Flag-award winning site, including for parents and carers, following the addition of a Changing Places toilet earlier this year.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council will also be engaging with selected local schools and other key stakeholders. All feedback will be considered before decisions are made. It is expected the project will be completed ready for the 2026 summer season.
The survey can be found online and must be completed by 10am on Monday 24 February 2025. Printed copies of the survey are available and can be requested by calling 01303 853000.