Fun for All Promised at Lower Leas Park Play Area
A major refurbishment of the district’s flagship play area has been given the green light by cabinet members.
Councillors agreed a £750,000 budget for the Lower Leas Coastal Park fun zone project last night (21 May), ahead of a contractor being appointed this summer.
Hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors have enjoyed the existing equipment – most of which was installed when the park first opened in 2000 and is now heading towards the end of its shelf life.
Over 1,100 people completed a questionnaire covering a wide range of topics between December 2024 and February 2025. These responses have been used to shape the emerging design.
There is a particular wish to have a range of equipment that caters for different age groups, while also giving children the opportunity to play alongside each other no matter their abilities.
Cllr Connor McConville, Cabinet Member for Assets and Local Government Reorganisation, said:
“The questionnaire responses showed just how excited families across the district are for this project – and we can’t wait either.
“The new play area will replicate the quality and stature of the existing one, as well as sit respectfully in its unique location. It will also include accessible equipment to allow young people of any level of ability to enjoy the facilities.
“Alongside major works to ensure the safety of the cliffs at the Lower Leas Coastal Park, we will endeavour to open the new play park in time for the summer school holidays in 2026.”
Folkestone & Hythe District Council will adopt, where possible, a phased approach to the installation of new equipment to allow areas to remain open for use.
The project budget is being funded by development levies aimed at improving local infrastructure (CIL and s106), grants and other council budgets.
The Lower Leas Coastal Park – a 1.2km linear park on Folkestone’s coastline – consists of formal gardens, wild zones and play space. It boasts extensive tree coverage, ecological habitats and public open space.
The overhaul of the fun zone follows off the back of the installation of a new pirate ship, a toilet block with a kiosk, and a Changing Places facility.