The Friends of Victoria Park have responded to comments by columnist, Stuart Barton, in the 1st August edition of the Kentish Express:

"I am writing in disgust regarding Mr Barton’s comments about the revamp of Victoria Park, Kentish Express 1st August 2019.

Victoria Park, as is the case with most open public spaces, suffers some problems. Most recently there have been 2 out of the ordinary attacks. Mr Barton's assertion that it is one of Kent's hotspots is unfounded; as would be shown by a quick reference to Kent Police crime statistics, which in recent months show significantly higher figures for both antisocial behaviour, and violent and sexual crime in the area around the Kentish Express offices than in the vicinity of Victoria park.

The Friends of Victoria Park are delighted to learn that Ashford Borough Council has been awarded more than £3 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund to revitalise Victoria Park.

Friends of Victoria Park will be exhibiting some details of the proposals at Create and Mr. Harper's Birthday Party this weekend.

The funding, thanks to National Lottery players, means the council can deliver its exciting plans to redevelop and restore one of Ashford’s oldest and most-loved green spaces, working with the local community, volunteer groups and the Friends of Victoria Park.

Proposals include a new children’s play area, improvements to the river, improved lighting across the park, and a new community hub building with café, and new toilets. The iconic Grade II Listed Hubert Fountain and the surrounding piazza area will also be restored and repaired.

The council will be employing four new members of staff to manage the project, including a parks officer who will be based on site. There will also be opportunities for the community to get involved with volunteering roles as part of the project.

More than 1,000 people gave their feedback on park improvements as part of the council’s consultation process in the preparation of the bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The results showed the public wanted a café, better play areas and toilets, more events and activities, and improved safety and security. Thanks to this funding the council will be able to make improvements, which will hopefully encourage more people to enjoy Victoria Park for longer.

Almost £1.9 million will be spent on repairs and conservation of the historical aspects of the park, and another £1 million has been earmarked for new building work including access paths, signage, bridges, and dipping platforms.

For Ashford Borough Council, Cllr Peter Feacey, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Tourism and Leisure, said: “We are very pleased to have been awarded this money from the National Lottery Heritage Fund; this is a regeneration project that we can’t wait to start. The funding means we can make these exciting improvements, reconnecting people with this historic park and its heritage. Events and activities focussed on children and young people and resources for schools will encourage our younger residents to visit.”

https://news.ashford.gov.uk/news/celebrating-funding-success/