A brand-new play zone in Folkestone town centre is to be discussed by planning and licensing committee members next week.
A key component of Folkestone – A Brighter Future, the Bouverie Square proposal has a range of exciting equipment including a substantial climbing structure and a wheelchair-accessible roundabout.
It would help transform the former bus station into a green heart to be enjoyed by residents and visitors – just one of the significant improvements forming part of the £22m regeneration project being delivered by Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
If approved, the main play structure will be made of highly sustainable Robinia hardwood and have tube slides, a series of different climbers and a chill zone. An in-ground jumper (trampoline), a low-level nest swing, a tunnel within a mound and seating complete the layout.
The design, which features brightly coloured salamanders (as introduced as part of Folkestone Triennial 2025) is the outcome of a collaboration between F&HDC, Creative Folkestone and the artist Monster Chetwynd.
Documents before councillors read: “The heart of the design is the salamander, chosen by the artist as a symbol of rejuvenation and regeneration, reflecting the wider creative regeneration of Folkestone over recent decades.
“This has evolved into a hybrid creature concept, intended to combine the natural resilience of the salamander with imaginative and fantastical forms to create a playful narrative of transformation and growth.”
Comments submitted during last year’s engagement phase with residents have been incorporated, where residents expressed a wish for climbing and adventure play.
The planning and licensing committee meeting takes place at the Civic Centre on Tuesday 11 August from 7pm. It can be watched in-person or online.