Kent Country Parks Service manages nine country parks across the county. A further five countryside sites are managed by Infrastructure. The draft 2017-21 strategy builds on the vision and objectives of the previous strategy, but critically develops further the links to health outcomes that the Country Parks offer supports; and it also includes a commitment to further improve our understanding around our customers and potential customers.
The vision is “to provide an inspirational and sustainable countryside experience for Kent’s residents and visitors.” It is supported by three strategic aims:
1. Provide a network of high quality and biodiverse country parks
2. Increase visitors to the country parks particularly at off peak times and among underrepresented groups
3. Ensure the service is as self-sustaining as possible
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: Affects more than two Electoral Divisions;
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Division affected: (All Division);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 29/01/2018
Decision due: Not before 27th Feb 2018 by Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services
Reason: In order that the proposed decision can be publsihed for a minimum of 28 days, in accordance with statutory requirements
Lead member: Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services
Lead director: Katie Stewart
Contact: Stephanie Holt-Castle, Director of Growth and Communities 03000 412064 Email: stephanie.holt@kent.gov.uk.
Consultees
The draft strategy has been developed with an Informal Members’ Board. The 2017 – 2021 Strategy was consulted upon from 10 July 2017 to 18 September 2017, following Environment and Transport Cabinet Committee’s comments in June 2017.
The final strategy was considered and endorsed at the Environment and Transport Cabinet Committee on 31 January.
Financial implications: This Strategy will be delivered through the County Council’s core funding of the KCC Country Parks Service, and through the income that the service generates year on year
Legal implications: None
Equalities implications: The EqIA found that the Strategy will not have an adverse equality impact. However the service is planning further research into the demographic profile of park users to develop action plans to encourage increased usage from under-represented groups.