2025
May
Results of the public consultation about the future use of the 18 acres of council-owned land published.
There were 1472 responses to the survey. The survey was available to complete online or was supplied in print for those without digital access.
Questions aimed to determine from those who responded the importance of several options for the site.
These options were to:
- Maintain the open space as it is currently – with low level fencing and footpaths around the perimeter.
- Keep and improve the existing play area and car parking facilities.
- Support biodiversity gain through rewilding and by managing the site and providing the best possible habitats for wildlife.
- Enable the opening of a kiosk to sell drinks and snacks along with the provision of public toilets (similar to the kiosk in Folkestone’s Lower Leas Coastal Park).
- Future development of areas of the site which could include new, affordable homes, new areas of accessible open space, play areas and recreational facilities.
- Support further development of leisure opportunities and public enjoyment of the canal.
Of those responding, 64% considered that supporting biodiversity was very important and 51% rated maintaining the current open space as very important.
See a summary of the consultation feedback (PDF, 296KB). If this information is required in another format please contact communications@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk
Thank you to all those who shared their thoughts and ideas for the area. The responses will be reviewed and ward councillors will be further discussing the responses and talking to Hythe residents and businesses.