Residents are being encouraged to have their say on plans to create a new community parkland in Hoo.
As part of our plan to improve residents’ access to greenspaces, we are launching a consultation on a proposal to transform Deangate Ridge – the site of the former golf course in Duxcourt Road – into a new parkland.
The project would provide new public access to the site, create a substantial public open space of at least 43 hectares which would provide spaces for families to enjoy and support local wildlife.
Plans for the new greenspace include picnic areas, improved access to spectacular viewpoints across the grasslands, enhanced woodland areas alongside open meadows, paths for residents and dog walkers and new signs which will provide information about the important habitats in the area.
The consultation is due to begin on Friday, 11 August and closes at midnight on Friday, 22 September.
Residents will also be able to look at the plans in person at three community events:
- High Halstow Village Hall: Tuesday, 29 August from 4pm to 9pm
- Hoo Sports Centre: Monday, 4 September from 3pm to 7pm
- Deangate Indoor Bowls Club: Thursday, 14 September from 4pm to 9pm.
Despite the government’s recent decision to withdraw the £170m programme of Housing Infrastructure Fund (HIF) support, Medway Council remains committed to delivering environmental improvements on the Hoo Peninsula which will benefit both residents and local wildlife. The council is exploring alternative funding options to bring forward this exciting project.
We are committed to establishing new parks and improving access to greenspaces
Cllr Simon Curry, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Regeneration, said: “We know how important greenspaces are for the health and wellbeing of our residents and I am delighted that we are launching a consultation on our plans to create a new community parkland at Deangate. Ecological studies have found that Deangate Ridge is home to a wide range of wildlife including, pipistrelle bats and slow worms, and it is very important that we protect the habitats of these species.
“We are committed to establishing new parks and improving residents’ access to greenspaces. The proposed new parkland would benefit residents of the Hoo Peninsula and across Medway. It will provide access to greenspace for people of all ages and abilities, as well as protecting our local wildlife, and I would encourage residents to have their say on these exciting plans.”