Folkestone & Hythe District Council Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 – 2020

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 1 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 CONTENTS

1 Introduction 4

2 Site Details 5 2.1 Population Distribution 5 2.2 Diverse Countryside 5 2.3 Transport Links 5 2.4 Directions to Coastal Park 6 2.5 Kent Context Map 6 2.6 Folkestone Street Map 7 2.7 Site Description 7 2.8 Aerial Photograph 8 2.9 Places Maps 9

3 Site History 11 3.1 Historical Photographs 12

4 Maintenance Plan 14 4.1 Maintenance Maps 15 4.2 Grounds Maintenance 17 4.3 Park Keepers 19 4.4 Property 20 4.5 Engineers 21 4.6 Regeneration 21 4.7 Cleansing Contractor 21 4.8 Management Plan Summary Table 21

5 Health and Safety 30 5.1 Introduction 30 5.2 Security 31 5.3 Equipment and Facilities 31 5.4 Chemicals 32 5.5 Vehicles and Machinery 33 5.6 Personal Protection Equipment and Signage 33

6 Facilities 34 6.1 Play Area 34 6.2 Amphitheatre 35 6.3 Toilet Block 35 6.4 Mermaid Café 36 6.5 Beach Chalets 36 6.6 Picnic Areas 36 6.7 Informal Performance Areas 34 6.8 Gardens 37 6.9 Beach 38 6.10 National Cycle Route 2 39

7 Nature Conservation and Heritage 40

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 2 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 7.1 Ecological Management 40 7.2 Buildings Footpaths and Structures 41

8 Sustainability 44 8.1 Vehicles and Machinery 44 8.2 Recycling 45 8.3 Horticulture 45 8.4 Furniture 47

9 Marketing 47 9.1 Leaflet 47 9.2 Facebook 47 9.3 Visitor Survey 47 9.4 Interpretation and Signage 48 9.5 Web Advertising 49 9.6 Business Engagement and Shows 49 9.7 In House Promotion 49 9.8 Publications 49

10 Community Involvement 50 10.1 Events Process 50 10.2 User Groups 51 10.3 Art 52 10.4 Volunteers 53

11 List of Appendices 54

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 3 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 1 Introduction ______

The Coastal Park has seen major investment by Folkestone & Hythe District Council (FHDC) and other funding bodies since 1999. This Management Plan has been developed in association with various other strategies and documents to provide a standard that the park will be maintained to. It will help to ensure that the park fulfils the original vision statement in that the park should: -

Vision Statement:

 Continue to serve as a very high quality and attractive open space with a wide and inclusive appeal  Remain safe and be managed in an environmentally sustainable way  Be a major venue for events and art  Actively compliment other actions for regeneration of the town and district and not be seen as an isolated site  Successfully integrate its coastal defence role with its main role as a public park  Respond to changing demands of users where compatible with the aims of maintaining environmental quality and heritage value

The Management Plan helps in achieving the strategic objectives set out in the Corporate Plan and the department Service Plan which are available to view online.

The six strategic objectives are:-

 More Home  More Jobs  Appearance Matters  Health Matters  Achieving Stability  Delivering Excellence

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 4 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 2 Site Details

2.1 Population Distribution

Folkestone & Hythe District Council covers a total area of 36,525 hectares and encompasses the towns of Folkestone, Hythe, New Romney and Lydd. The population of Shepway is 108,700 (2011 Census). The key breakdown of the District’s population is shown below.

2.2 Diverse Countryside

Kent has a varied and diverse countryside including the largest area of ancient semi-natural woodland of any county in Great Britain. The pattern of agriculture, including fruit, hops and general produce, has earned Kent the title of “Garden of England”.

The coastline of Kent stretches for 350 miles from the industrialised Thames- side to the great shingle expense of Dungeness. Along the Medway and Swale estuaries are the mudflats and salt marshes known as the North Kent Marshes. The White Cliffs, around Dover and Folkestone are internationally renowned and have been designated a Heritage Coast by Natural England. There are also numerous attractive towns and villages throughout the region, many of which are relatively quiet and unspoiled. The landscape, attractive settlements and coast represent the major assets of the region.

2.3 Transport links

Road The Folkestone / Hythe area is well served by an excellent transportation network. The A259 serves the length of the South East coast from Folkestone to Havant. Junctions 10, 12 and 13 of the M20 motorway link Hythe and Folkestone to the M25 and London and east to Dover. Regular buses, 100, 101, 102 travel on the A259, stopping at Folkestone Bus Station. National Express coaches provide a service from Folkestone to London with at least 4 departures each day.

Rail The Channel Tunnel Rail Link has increased passenger activity throughout the district, the shuttle operates between Folkestone and Calais, with a 35 minute journey time. Folkestone Central and West stations provide regular services to the rest of the South East and London. The new high speed rail service is available from Folkestone West Station arriving at London St Pancras in just under 1 hour.

Sea The Port of Dover is within easy travelling distance from Folkestone. This is a principal passenger service port for the South East providing regular services to France and the wider continent.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 5 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 2.4 Directions to Coastal Park

By Car Leave the M20 at junction 13 and follow A20 (Cherry Garden Lane) to the second set of traffic lights. Turn left into Cheriton Road (A2034) and continue to the roundabout. Turn right at the roundabout and follow the A259 under the railway bridge. Go straight across 2 roundabouts following Castle Hill Avenue. At the 3rd roundabout turn left into Sandgate Road and proceed through the town centre. At the traffic lights turn right and take the second left at the roundabout following the Road of Remembrance down a steep slope. Continue until the road forks and take the right fork along the harbour. Follow the road round but continue straight along the seafront on Lower Sandgate Road until you reach the park.

By Train Leave the train at Folkestone Central Station and walk along the A259, Castle Hill Avenue until you reach The Leas. Turn right and walk along The Leas until you reach the bandstand. Follow the Zig Zag Path down into the park.

By Bus From Folkestone Bus Station walk along West Terrace towards the sea. At the roundabout take the steps leading down from the Road of Remembrance. At the foot of the steps turn right and walk past the Leas Lift into the park.

2.5 Kent Context Map

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 6 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 2.6 Folkestone Street Map

2.7 Site Description

The Coastal Park is an 11 hectare linear section of land between Folkestone and Sandgate. It is split into three broad recreational zones namely The Wild Zone, The Fun Zone and The Formal Zone. The zones are depicted in the maps below.

Wild Zone This zone encompasses land from the western entrance to the Toll House and is informally managed for recreation and wildlife. Areas of grass are close mown for amenity value while other areas are managed with a view to encouraging wildlife by maintaining existing habitats and creating additional ones. The parks geology and coastal aspect provides the basis for a rich flora and fauna, particularly migrating birds and insects. The thin sandy soil is ideal for native wild plants to thrive, while the south facing sunny under cliff has a mild micro-climate suitable for wildlife that may be unusual elsewhere in the country.

Fun Zone The centre of the park is used purely for recreation with the play area as the main focus. The equipment is wooden in construction to blend in with its surroundings and maintain the rural feel of the site. The equipment consists of a large main unit with tube slides, towers, net tunnels and aerial slides and 5 smaller themed areas. The Bounty shipwreck, climbing walls, a toddler’s construction area, harbour with rocking boats and a unit suitable for wheelchair users complete the play area. Also situated in this zone is the site office, Amphitheatre, Zig Zag Path and Storytelling Area. Free events

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 7 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 throughout the summer take place in the Amphitheatre with a wide range of activities, theatre, workshops, films and live music entertaining visitors.

Formal Zone This zone has been the subject of a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant and was opened in May 2006 with an extensive events weekend “Picnic in the Park”. This zone contrasts the wild zone with formal planting and emphasises the horticultural excellence the park has been known for historically. New areas are continually being developed with many sub tropical plants being trialled in response to climate change and the need to eliminate additional watering.

2.8 Aerial Photograph

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 8 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

2.9 Places Maps

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 9 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 10 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 3 Site History ______

The Coastal Park was created in 1784 when a landslip produced a new strip of land between the beach and the new cliff line. The land was farmed although it appears this was difficult due to the geomorphology of the area.

Cows were led down the cliff face to graze on pastures and this steep path still exists today and is known as the Cow Path. A boardwalk provides an alternative route to the stepped sections, ensuring access for all abilities and families with pushchairs. Viewing platforms allow visitors to take a rest on the steep steps.

Following the land slip the Toll Road was built to provide a route between Sandgate and the harbour and to generate income. Visitor numbers to Folkestone increased due to the newly discovered benefits in sea bathing and other more general health benefits associated with sea air.

The land was under the ownership of Lord Radnor who in the 1840’s recognised that, following completion of rail links, the park could be used to attract visitors to the town. During the 1870’s new paths were laid allowing access from The Leas to the park. To ease this steep access the Leas Lift was opened in 1885 followed by a second lift at the same site in 1890. The lifts proved popular and 2 further lifts were built. The 1893 lift carried passengers from Sandgate to the Leas and the 1904 Metropole Lift provided an alternative to the Leas Lift at the eastern end.

Recreational features were added to the park during this period and included the Victoria Pier, Switchback rollercoaster style ride, The Leas Shelter and the Leas Bandstand. The Switchback ride was severely damaged by a storm in 1909 and was dismantled. The Leas Shelter became the present day Leas Cliff Hall following extensive refurbishment and The Leas Bandstand was completely refurbished in 2006.

The park suffered decline in the 20th Century although attempts were made to regenerate the area with the construction of the Zig Zag Path in 1921 which also provided much needed employment for the town, a model railway constructed in the 1940’s and the opening of the beach front Mermaid Café.

The model railway was dismantled in the 1970’s although parts of the station foundations can be found in the fun zone.

The Mermaid Café has been improved recently and the Zig Zag Path was repaired to remove the stepped section and reintroduce the slope to improve access.

For further detail on the history on the site refer to the Historical Survey and Restoration Management Plan available to view on request.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 11 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 The park further deteriorated in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s with only essential cliff stabilisation works being carried out. The park became a magnet for undesirables and the once celebrated features became derelict. However in 1999, following successful applications to various funding partners including Interreg II, the Home Office, the Single Regeneration Budget (SEEDA), SUSTRANS and the Heritage Lottery Fund, Folkestone & Hythe District Council embarked on an extensive 3 phase regeneration scheme, with phases 1 and 2 being completed in 2000 and phase 3 in 2006.

Due to its origin and location, access in and around the park has historically been difficult. The development of the park has dealt with these issues where ever possible, removing steps, installing lighting and re-surfacing pathways.

3.1 Historical Photographs

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 12 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

The Toll House and Victoria Pier

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 13 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 4 Maintenance Plan ______

The Horticultural Manager has managerial control over 1 Senior Gardener, 2 Gardeners, 2 Park Keepers 2 seasonal Assistant Park Keepers and 2 seasonal Litter Pickers. Site specific staff can respond to issues as they arise allowing a high standard to be maintained at all times. The Park Keepers team have a shift system during the winter months to cover the day to day duties at the weekends.

The Coastal Park has a separate, ring fenced budget of £80,000 per year which funds maintenance of the park and part of the managers’ salary. This budget covers maintenance of existing equipment, purchase of new equipment, play equipment spares and renovation and new planting.

£7,000.00 £15,000.00

£16,000.00

Contribution to Managers Salary New Equipment and Furniture Equipment and Furniture, Repair and Maintenance Play Equipment, Repair and Maintenance Plants, Trees and Shrubs £17,000.00

£25,000.00

The Senior Gardener allocates work in accordance with the maintenance schedules, discussions with the Manager, the agreed service standards, risk assessments and best horticultural practice. The service standards and risk assessments are available to view on request as are all other documents relating to Health and Safety (COSHH, Safety Data Sheets etc). The Senior Gardener is responsible for ensuring all day to day duties within the park are completely in a timely fashion and to a high standard.

The Manager makes regular inspections to ensure works are carried out to the correct standard and frequency. The Manager also selects planting required for gapping up and newly cleared areas including trees and hedging. The hostile marine environment often dictates plant choices although trials are carried out to introduce new horticultural interest and respond to climate change.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 14 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Coastal Park staff are supported by other members of the Grounds Maintenance team such the Arboriculture Manager (Woodland Escarpment Management and general tree care, the Technical Services Manager (fleet, equipment and machinery) and Supervisors ( support to all managers). Other departments also assist with the running of the park as listed in this section 9. The Property Section plays a significant role in the upkeep of the park’s infrastructure and play equipment.

Park Keepers have been employed to manage the cleansing of the major parks in Folkestone. They are trained to enforce breaches of dog fouling and littering bylaws by issuing fixed penalty notices. The 2 teams of 3, work on a 4 on 4 off system during the summer, reduced down to 2 teams of 1 person during the quieter winter months. During the winter they spend more time in the Coastal Park, covering the day to day duties.

4.1 Maintenance Maps

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 15 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 16 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 4.2 Grounds Maintenance

The table below details the main maintenance operations carried out by the gardeners and should be read alongside the maps above for activity locations. Because the staff are site specific, definitive schedules of work are not followed; rather the staff are aware of the high standards expected and work to ensure they are met. There is a real sense of ownership and pride in the site from the staff which is entrenched by constant feedback from park users.

Area Operation Frequency

Cut back to maintain good growth and Buffer Planting plant health. Maintain safe access along Annual or as required Promenade and pathways

Wild areas managed for wildlife conservation. Flail or Ferris mowers are Biannual or as instructed Conservation Cut used depending on area and slope by the Manager angle

Large amenity areas close mown for Grass Cutting recreation. Triple mower used, backed Fortnightly or as required up by strimming and flymo / Condor

Hand weeding, edging, dead heading and pruning to maintain plant health. As required, dependant Herbaceous Border Cutting back old growth and removing on season debris

Strimming to maintain short sward. Monthly strim. Other Mediterranean Bank Pruning shrubs, area subject to planting operations as required trials of exotic species.

Transitions into conservation cut areas and path edges to soften changes in maintenance. Areas where monoculture Strimming Monthly or as required of wild species would otherwise dependant on season dominate (Alexanders, bramble, white poplar)

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 17 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

Daffodils, crocus, bluebells and Allow 6 - 8 weeks after snowdrops allowed to naturalise. Grass flowering before Naturalised Bulbs cutting and strimming regimes are maintenance operations adjusted to allow die back and bulb resume regeneration.

Pruning to ensure good plant health and Ornamental maintain safe access. Gapping up as Annual or as required Planting required.

Pruning to ensure good plant health and Shrub Border maintain safe access. Gapping up as Annual or as required required.

Biannual (March and Mowing regime using reciprocating September although the mower to achieve desired mix of fine meadow is assessed Wildflower grasses and wild flowers. Raking off of prior to cutting and Meadows all arisings to lower nutrient level and adjustments to remove opportunity for rank species to timescales are subject to dominate. change)

Ensure good plant health and layer vegetation under the canopy. Replace As and when required. dead, diseased or dying specimens with Tree survey carried out Trees suitable species. Leave dead wood on every 2 years by site where practical to create wildlife Arboriculture Officer. habitats.

Clearing pre-identified coupes to open vistas, removal of self seeded sycamore saplings. Replanting Holm Oak and Extensive clearance of Woodland Pines in cleared areas to increase age self set sycamores took Escarpment and species diversity. Beating up place in 2015 previous planting to ensure plant health and success.

All green waste not left on site as wildlife Green Waste refuges to be taken to Hawkinge Daily or as required Cemetery for in house composting.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 18 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 The Senior Gardener is also required to

 Assist as required to ensure the smooth running of amphitheatre events  Maintain the irrigation system at the amphitheatre  Carry out rat baiting as required  Use knapsack sprayer if required  Maintain chemical store and complete monthly inventory  Inspect vehicle and trailer daily, complete inspection sheet and arrange any repairs with the FHDC Mechanics  Ensure all staff complete relevant paperwork and hand to manager  Liaise with the Park Keepers  Ensure all works on site are carried out safely  Ensure all tools and equipment are safe and properly maintained  Work out of hours as required  Liaise with Police, Border Force, public and other site users as necessary

4.3 Park Keepers

The Park Keepers are a mobile crew who tend to the major parks in Folkestone including the Coastal Park. During the summer all duties listed below are undertaken by members of this team, ensuring that the park is clean and safe while providing a point of contact for the public. During the winter, with the park less busy, the gardening team are able to carry out the required duties. This allows more flexibility for the council and ensures the Coastal Park operates in an efficient and sustainable manner.

Daily  Visual inspection of play equipment. Record on log sheet and report to Horticultural Manager  Rake all sand pits, remove litter, leaves and detritus.  Sweep sand from all play equipment including ropes, ladders, platforms and ramps  Empty all litter bins as necessary and replace sacks, leave all used sacks at agreed collection points. Use notifications to collect Big belly bins.  Thoroughly litter pick all areas, paths and steps  Sweep paths and steps as necessary including beneath benches  Remove broken glass immediately  Remove fallen leaves (autumn)  Inspect street furniture, carry out maintenance (oiling etc) and minor repairs or inform Property team as appropriate. Remove graffiti immediately or request Area Officer to assist as required  Make minor repairs to play equipment  Sweep main pathway removing all litter, sand and obstacles  Keep site office tidy at all times, including storeroom underneath and storage cupboards within the toilet block  Complete an accurate daily record of events in the diary provided including visitor numbers, any defects found, repairs undertaken, any incidents and site visits from other employees / delegates

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 19 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020  Liaise with Police, CCTV, Town Centre Management and shops as requested or required  Check large beach sandpit for debris and remove during the winter (Beach cleaners employed through council’s cleansing contract during summer season)  Enforce relevant dog fouling and littering bylaws and issue fixed penalty notices as appropriate  Assist park visitors as required and ensure park equipment is used appropriately  Unlock and lock toilet block as appropriate  Liaise with Toll House residents, Mermaid Café lease holder and Beach Chalet lease holder as required  Remove and report any sharps finds  Remove rubbish sacks from collection points twice daily throughout the year and transport to KCC waste site  Clean toilet block thoroughly twice daily during the summer and daily during the winter, more often as required during busy periods

Weekly  Clean all perspex/ plastic panels on play equipment  Ensure all paths/routes are walked and inspected at least weekly, repairing minor damage, cleaning instances of graffiti, litter picking and noting down defects to be reported or repaired on return visit  Clear around and inside all ground lights and lamp column bases  Inspect chicken wire on wooden walkways for trip hazards and repair or report as necessary  Clean all interpretation panels and entrance signs  Inspect all art features within the park and report as appropriate  Clean bird droppings from seating  Check cliff face and pathways for obvious movement and report as appropriate  Report all instances of fly tipping

 4.4 Property  Receive daily visual play area check sheets and action as appropriate  Ensure a weekly check is carried out by RoSPA trained staff and any issues raised are addressed appropriately  Action all issues raised by biannual insurance inspections  Assist in the annual manufacturer inspection and work to compile an annual spares order  Maintain sewage uplift pumps to Mermaid Café  Arrange for handyman service to carry out works as requested by the Manager  Maintain roadway and footpath surfaces  Maintain all buildings on site  Arrange maintenance on Wallgate hand wash in toilet block

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 20 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020  Liaise with Mermaid Café and Beach Chalet lease holder with regard to maintenance and legal matters  Enforce contractual obligation of the same  Arrange, monitor and finance emptying of sanitary bins in toilet block

4.5 Engineers  Survey cliff face periodically for movement  Act on any ground slippage or drainage issues  Maintain sea defences below Coastal Park

4.6 Regeneration  Identify new projects  Advise on funding streams and apply for funding  Promote and market the Coastal Park

4.7 Cleansing Contractor  Supply rubbish sacks  Remove all reported fly tipping  Remove large instances of graffiti  Provide litter pickers for beach during summer  New waste management contract (2021) will implement seasonal provision of recycling facilities to assist with the disposal of vast volumes of picnic refuse

4.8 Management Plan Summary Table

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 21 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 2016 - 2020 Management Plan Summary Headline Indicator Timescale Comments Maintenance Plan 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Replace all picnic furniture and play area X X X X X Ongoing seating Replace wooden walkways. Install X X X X Completed galvanised wire netting to prevent slips Replace wooden barriers in western X X X Completed section

Repair potholes as Re-surface roadway X X required

Health and Safety 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Comments

Risk assessment, COSHH, safety data Ongoing good sheets - monitor and X X X X X practise update

Ongoing good Staff Health X X X practice Surveillance

Specialist HAVS ware Hand and Arm purchased to monitor Vibration Syndrome X X X daily exposure surveillance (completed 2018) Follow industry trend on batter powered or low vibration X X X X X Ongoing equipment

Top up wood chippings under X X Ongoing maintenance ziplines

Top up sand in all pits X X X X X Ongoing maintenance

Update staff training New staff trained on pest control (rodent X X in2018. Ongoing and wasp) training requirement

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 22 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Facilities 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Comments

Monitor all play equipment and X X X X X Ongoing maintenance outbuildings Produce Briefing Note to CMT detailing likely Growth bid to be X need to replace tower submitted in 2020 units in 2022 Ongoing. Purchase Assess need for X X X as required within additional furniture budget

Bring Beach Chalets X Project complete back in house

Apply for annual X X X X X Spring annually Premise License

Conservation and 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Comments Heritage Ongoing – investigate Monitor flora and X X X X X use of volunteers. fauna Train staff Planting (including trees and shrubs) X X X Ongoing

Engage with Bumblebee Conservation Trust Planting bumble bee/ X X and Butterfly moth friendly plants Conservation Trust/ Natural England

Prune trees and stack dead wood where X X X X X Ongoing appropriate

Spirit of the Leas project to rejuvenate In house, Project paths, subways and X X X team – Lottery the Leas lamp posts funding not achieved

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 23 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Environmental 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Comments Sustainability Look into possibility of Continue in-house X X X X X selling compost / logs composting machine to the public Maintain existing facilities – low flush X X X X X Ongoing urinals, motion activated lighting Install wild flower Complete. 80000 meadow under Leas X X early spring flowering Cliff Hall bulbs planted in 2018 Installation of 12 solar powered compacting X Project completed litter bins (Big Belly) Ongoing. Replace Follow industry trend petrol powered on batter powered X X X equipment for battery equipment powered one when required

Marketing 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Comments

Website re-vamped in FHDC website 2015, monitor Coastal X X X improvements Park page for changes and updates Investigate use of Monitor notice boards magnetic boards X X X X X for repairs rather than cork boards Monitor all signs / sign X X X X X Replace as required posts etc Visitor Survey made available online, linked X X Completed to Spirit of the Leas project Increase use of Coastal Park Facebook page to, New Communications advertise events / X X X X X team assisting with wildlife sightings / staff resource volunteer opportunities Grounds Update Coastal Park Maintenance & X Leaflets external graphic design studio -

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 24 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Community 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Comments Involvement Encourage volunteers Area Officers to to take over X X engage with public to maintenance of Zig set up work parties Zag Path Continue to Provide amphitheatre encourage use of the and electricity etc for X X X X X amphitheatre by free to community community groups groups Continue to work with memorial garden group to build garden X X X X Ongoing for children who have died Engage FHDC Communications team Ongoing. Wider use X X X in volunteer recruiting of social media campaign Investigate the possibility of Potentially through volunteers X X X Universities (DICE at undertaking wildlife Kent Uni) monitoring

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 25 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 TIME OBJECTIVE APPROACH ACTION COMPLETED SCALE Maintain planting in Plants sourced Serve as a very all areas and from local nursery high quality and continue trialling sub Palmsteads, attractive open tropical species. larger specimens Annual March Annually space with a Plants need to be low sourced from Big wide and maintenance with low Plant nursery in inclusive appeal watering requirement East Sussex. Post base feet Completed in Monitor tower now all changed 2015 unit to metal which Maintain and improve should ensure existing play facilities another 5 years

useful life.

Ensure all picnic All picnic furniture Underway Monitor over furniture is in a good being replaced January 2016 next 5 years state of repair

Monthly Monitor over Ensure lighting is Monthly inspections next 5 years effective

Be a major Continue to work As Commission art in with local arts venue for opportunities Ongoing the park groups and the events and art arise Folkestone Triennial

Provide at least 3

major summer Engage with local events under a Complete by suitable Annual Service Level end February companies Agreement for a annually

budget not to exceed £6,500

Work with groups Throughout year / organisations to as required or ensure all events requested Ensure summer are safe, exciting

events programme is and well attended Annual full, varied and offers

inclusive appeal

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 26 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Actively compliment other regeneration Networking projects in the Attend events as amongst event Annual Ongoing town and appropriate organisers and district and visitors not be seen as an isolated site Actively work with the Harbour Arm Promote events Company and throughout the Creative Foundation town and engage As required or Annual to assist in the with various art requested promotion and projects and regeneration of initiatives Folkestone Promote the project (restoration of two cliff-paths to re-establish views of the Park and Hall, restoration of heritage assets Actively support and the FHDC officers and manufacturing of a external specialists in mould of the 1905 the Heritage Lottery Leas lamp- Ongoing 2020 application to fund columns) by the ‘Spirit of the Leas engaging people ‘project through activities centred on music, dance, fashion, architecture, archaeology and wildlife

Successfully integrate its Report any issues coastal Work with Engineers and monitor team to ensure beach Biannual Ongoing defence role Coastal Defence replenishment with its main remains effective works in terms of role as a shingle movement public park

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 27 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Respond to New BBQ stands changing BBQ tables and and bins designed disposal bins being Complete Complete demands of and installed burnt users where practicable

New signage, Ensure visitors are updated leaflets aware of site specific and FHDC Ongoing Ongoing by-laws website

Double yellow lines and parking bays in place. Timber bollards installed to Parking and parking prevent grass Working Ongoing enforcement damage, effectively congestion in the park and to allow for free traffic flow in case of emergency In order to provide an effective and efficient service Park Keepers and Ensure staffing levels Assistant Park are sufficient at Keepers have Working Ongoing different times of the been employed to effectively day enforce bylaws and ensure adaptable and effective litter collection.

Be managed Various plants are in an environ- Investigate re-used from opportunities for hanging baskets Spring and Annual mentally recycling bedding and seasonal Autumn sustainable plants bedding schemes way

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 28 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

Complete – Compost from green Purchase compost and waste to be available composting Winter 2011 mulch now used for use by FHDC machine on site

Reduce vehicle Installation of 12 movements in park solar powered Completed and used staff 2018 compacting litter August 2018 resource in a more bins efficient manner

Maintain Manager to environmental Retain Green Flag End of January ensure application Annual Award annually quality and is submitted heritage value Clean out bird Continue to monitor boxes, maintain Annual wildlife and improve / wildflower Ongoing cleaning create new habitats meadows and identify new areas

Staff now trained in first aid, chemical use, Ongoing Ensure all staff are rodent control, dependant on adequately and Ongoing wasp control, training appropriately trained chipper use and budget NVQ Level II Amenity Horticulture

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 29 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 5 Health and Safety ______

5.1 Introduction Folkestone & Hythe District Council is required by law to state its policy for managing heath, safety and welfare. Good health and safety at work is a task shared by Members, Corporate Management Team, employees and contractors alike. All employees are required, as a condition of their service, to comply with Folkestone & Hythe District Council policies and procedures.

It is essential that the relevant risk assessments (RA’s) and Safe Systems of Work (SSW’s) are read and understood by every employee. These are reviewed annually or when necessary to take account of any new circumstances that might affect its validity.

The GM team have a suite of task specific RA’s that will, where necessary, be supported by service and corporate policy statements and/or codes of practice set out in the SSW or other specific requirements relating to current Health and Safety at Work legislation. Where there is a reliance on SSW, in house training will be provided.

All managers have undertaken a 4 day H&S Managing Safely course provided by IOSH. This equips managers with the ability to assess risk in their own individual areas for tasks which their staff undertake. All seasonal employees are provided with a day-long H&S briefing where all the pertinent RA’s and SSW are read through. All employees are encouraged to contribute to the documents, ensuring that these dynamic documents remain relevant and practical.

RA’s are held electronically and hard copies are held at each depot. Some tasks particularly those relating to chemical use and tree works require onsite RA’s, all staff are trained to complete these forms. All these documents are available to view on request at the Civic Centre.

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome monitoring is undertaken alongside annual health monitoring for all staff. Gardening staff use HAVS monitors that digitally measure their daily exposure. Data is collected daily and notifications sent to individual managers for assessment. Daily vibration exposure log books are available should there be technical issues with the HAVS ware.

5.2 Security Facilities are in place to ensure the Coastal Park and its visitors are safe and secure. Street lighting was added in 2000 as were CCTV cameras linked to the F&H network. Folkestone Town Council monitor and maintain all CCTV cameras in Folkestone.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 30 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Lighting in the park is provided by lamp columns, wall and ground lighting. Lighting is maintained through a monthly contract with a local contractor. All the columns are numbered on maps which are held by FHDC and the contractor ensuring faults are quickly and easily identified and rectified.

The site staff provide an on site presence and a point of contact for the public during busy periods. The table below gives an indication of the staff resource.

There are no staff on site on Christmas Day.

Table Showing Site Staffing Levels Gardener Mobile Park Static Park Seasonal Keeper Keeper Litter Picker Winter Week 3 1 Winter Weekend 1 Summer Week 3 1 1 1 Summer Weekend 1 1 1

In addition to Police response and patrols, Police Community Support Officers (PCSO’s) patrol the park during the day and into the late evening to discourage anti-social behaviour and disperse any individuals or groups who may be abusing the equipment or facilities. They are a friendly and approachable presence who can help the public with any problems or queries regarding local issues. All the on site staff know the officers and have mobile telephone numbers should they need them.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council employs Environmental Enforcement Officers to investigate and enforce environmental incidents and crimes. They are able to deal with dog fouling, graffiti, fly tipping, abandoned vehicles and a wide range of other community issues. They patrol the park regularly at times when dog fouling is likely to occur (e.g. early mornings) which has proven very effective at reducing incidences of this age old problem. The site staff can deal with most incidences of graffiti but the Environmental Enforcement Officers can help in cases where the area covered is very large or particularly stubborn.

5.3 Equipment and Facilities All staff are provided with uniforms so they are easily identified by visitors. They wear practical high-viz clothing. The inspections carried out by the staff mean that defects are quickly noticed and rectified. Should a defect prove to be beyond the capability of the on- site staff, the Property section is allocated the job. A team of four handymen with a wide skill base are able to attend site and repair or replace most street furniture and equipment. A range of electrical and mechanical engineering contractors are also available.

The Property section plays a pivotal role in ensuring the equipment and in particular the play area is safe for use. With such a well used and substantial unit it is essential that all aspects are checked and found to be safe on a very regular basis. The programme of inspection is as follows

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 31 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

Daily – visual inspection on arrival to ensure equipment has not been damaged overnight – (on-site staff)

Weekly – RoSPA trained staff carry out a complete inspection to current RoSPA standards

Biannually – Allianz Engineering inspection for insurance purposes (Zurich Insurance)

Annually – Inspection by Eibeplay (equipment manufacturer)

All reports are received by the Property Section and any defects quickly rectified. The inspection carried out by eibe is very thorough and allows the manager to plan and agree which items need replacement. Popular pieces are simply replaced although the opportunity is sometimes taken to bring new equipment in to add interest and keep up to date with advances in play.

A well stocked first aid kit is kept for public use in the site office. Cuts and grazes are treated with sterile wipes and plasters given to the parent or guardian of the injured party. The emergency services are called for more serious injuries. All Folkestone fire, ambulance and police have keys to access the park and crews from outside the district will cut padlocks in emergency situations. All incidents which require an ambulance are recorded and sent to the Civic H&S team.

5.4 Chemicals Chemical use is kept to a minimum in the park although it is unavoidable in some circumstances. The gardeners are trained in pesticide storage and spraying (City and Guilds NPTC PA1 and PA6). Although this is a qualification for life, staff undergo refresher training every 5 years. Before any spraying operation the relevant paper work is completed and held on file for future reference. The main chemical used in the park is rat poison to control the rodent population and occasionally the path edges and steps will be sprayed with Glyphosate.

The Supervisor monitors all chemical use and keeps records of all spraying operations and chemicals kept at depots. Safety data and COSHH sheets are kept for each chemical and the Supervisor ensures chemicals are not kept beyond their using up period. Each depot has chemical and fuel stores clearly marked with relevant safety warning signs. There is also a flambank for storing fuel. A secure flambank is kept inside the truck for transporting fuel around the site. All documents relating to chemical and fuel use are available to view on request.

Current steer is to stop the use of pesticides by 2021 on all land owned by FHDC. Trials assessing alternative methods and subsequent impact are underway.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 32 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 5.5 Vehicles and Machinery The Coastal Park gardening team have a Ford Ranger and large trailer. Each morning before starting the vehicle the senior gardener completes daily checks and signs them off on the back of his time sheet. This system ensures that the vehicles remain in good condition and any faults can be quickly rectified by the FHDC mechanics.

All machinery is serviced annually and the senior gardener ensures this is carried out. Small electric tools and equipment are subject to Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) every 12 months.

5.6 Personal Protective Equipment and Signage Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is issued to all staff to be worn at all times or when appropriate. The uniform has been developed through discussions with the staff, managers and health and safety officer. The basic kit consists of  Steel toe capped and mid soled boots  Brush cutter trousers with high-viz strips  High-viz polo shirt with FHDC logo  Body warmer with embroidered FHDC logo  Sweater with FHDC logo  High-viz coat with FHDC logo  High-viz waterproof jacket and trousers  Baseball cap with FHDC logo  Sun protection cream  Gloves – different types are available depending on personal preference or task in hand  Forestry helmets with ear and face protection  Chemical spray suit including wellington boots, chemical resistant gloves and face shield  Leptospirosis awareness card. This provides staff with advice on how to reduce the risk of contracting Leptospirosis (Weil’s Disease). The card also serves to inform medical services that the card holder is at risk.

Certain members of staff require a more extensive or different kit such as the Arborists who must wear clothing to protect them from chainsaw injury.

All vehicles and depots are equipped with a fully stocked first aid kit. These are checked annually or as used to ensure all salient items are included and that they are not past the best before date. There is one first aider in each team or depot and all staff members are provided with mobile telephones. Where Lone Working is unavoidable staff are made aware of the policy, risk assessments, emergency procedures and must check in with their manager or another team member at regular intervals.

Signage is used on site to warn the public of maintenance operations occurring. Grass cutting and hedge cutting signs are commonly used especially on narrow pathways, car parking areas or secluded spots. Staff are encouraged to use common sense when carrying out operations e.g.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 33 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 strimming in the play area would cease should a school party arrive. Maintenance and major works to play equipment is programmed to take place outside school holidays where ever possible. In the case of injury or damage to a visitor or their property staff fill in the relevant paperwork and hand the visitor a letter from the insurance officer detailing how claims are dealt with and providing contact details.

Situated in the play area is a sign detailing emergency procedures and telephone numbers. The address and number of the nearest hospital and the Civic Centre are also on this information panel.

6 Facilities ______

The Coastal Park offers a variety of facilities for its users as detailed below. This should be read in conjunction with the Places Maps which show where the different areas mentioned sit within the park.

6.1 Play Area The main draw of the park for families is without doubt the extensive adventure play area which is still the largest free play area in the south east. The equipment is suitable for all children between 4 and 16 years of age and parents are well catered for in terms of seating. There are climbing nets, wobbly bridges, tunnel slides, two 30m zip lines, tubes and net bridges making up the main tower units.

In addition to this there are 6 smaller themed areas the most popular being the HMS Bounty, a sunken pirate ship. Themed play continues in the harbour area with rocking boats and a construction yard for toddlers. There are also climbing walls and 3 sand diggers. The original inclusive play unit was completely replaced in 2012. The unit which is fully accessible by wheelchairs, has been redesigned and the area opened up, adding new play features and opportunities for imaginative play.

Sand is used as a safety surface to help the play equipment blend in with the natural environment and also continue the maritime theme of the park. The equipment is wooden with some stainless steel and glass reinforced plastic (GRP) where necessary.

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Inclusive Play Unit Troll and Billy Goats Bridge

6.2 Amphitheatre This grassed arena is set at the base of the Zig Zag Path with the stunning English Channel as a backdrop. There is ample seating for 300 visitors and performances throughout the summer are free and well attended. There is power, lighting and a portable stage is available for use. Folkestone & Hythe District Council provide 3 day long events throughout the summer which is awarded to a third party through a Service Level Agreement. Community use is also encouraged and the Manager and Events team work hard to ensure the amphitheatre summer programme is successful.

Planting around the amphitheatre consists of shrubs and herbaceous borders and the grass is kept in good condition by a pop up sprinkler system. The columns are painted every other year and lights set into the walls and solar powered lights on top of the columns are maintained to give a soft light to the area after dark.

6.3 Toilet Block The toilet block was refurbished in 2000 and has ladies, gents and disabled facilities. A baby change table is provided in the disabled toilet which is accessible with a RADAR key after hours. Opening times vary with the season but they are always open between 9am and 4pm. The toilets are cleaned daily in the winter and at least twice daily in the summer. The site staff monitor the toilets during busy times and cleans as and when necessary, recording the times on a form. They are located in the fun zone near to the play area and

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 35 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 site office. The lighting system has been changed to be motion sensitive and water saving modifications have been made to the men’s urinal. The flushers in the female toilets are also activated by motion sensors which are more hygienic and promote wise water usage.

6.4 Mermaid Café This café was built in the forties along with other recreational facilities to boost visitor numbers to the park. Now owned by Folkestone & Hythe District Council the café is leased to a local business who run the café and maintain the buildings and access points. The café boasts a full premises license and a bar has been added. FHDC works closely with the Mermaid and they help to promote events and provide extra catering such as beach side BBQ’s for larger events. Some maintenance functions are retained by FHDC such as the sewage uplift pumps, monitored by the Property department.

6.5 Beach Chalets Around 80 beach chalets are available for hire along the base of the Coastal Park. They are now owned, leased out and maintained by Folkestone & Hythe District Council. These are extremely popular and many are long term lets. 2020 will see large refurbishment project of all beach huts.

6.6 Picnic Areas and BBQ Areas

The park is split in to three zones; Picnics Only, BBQs and Picnic and No BBQs or Dogs in the play area. The play area is a BBQ free zone due to the close proximity of the wooden play equipment and their smoky nature, however picnics are permitted. Stainless steel stands have been installed

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 36 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 where BBQ’s are permitted and special disposal bins are positioned at the BBQ sites. Open fires however are not permitted within the park.

6.7 Informal Performance Areas The story telling area complete with story tellers chair and rocks for the audience to perch on is used by school parties in particular and its quiet location is perfect for younger children to escape the often highly charged atmosphere of the play area.

The tree circle is centrally located within the park and is used for smaller bands to perform in during the summer. School parties use the area as a meeting point and it is often used for Tai Chi groups in the early mornings.

The roundel is found in the formal zone with good access to the beach and seating. This area lends itself to acoustic performances and draws people into the park from the beach.

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6.8 Gardens The Coastal Park has traditionally been known for its horticultural excellence and the improvements to the formal zone have recaptured this aspect of the parks history. There are herbaceous beds either side of the main pathway at the entrance to the park in Folkestone and smaller sections with differing flowering times providing year round interest.

The winter garden features snow drops and hellebores and has stone seating with views across the channel. The horseshoe garden has displays of grasses with splashes of colour provided by wall flowers, Osteospurmum and Erigeron. The Mediterranean Bank is being developed with many plant trials being carried out to reduce watering requirements.

6.9 Beach The coast protection scheme has created an excellent recreational area with sheltered bays perfect for sea bathing and a large sandpit set in the shingle foreshore. The promenade now links Folkestone to Sandgate and the rock groynes and sheltered bays also lend themselves to fishing and small boating activities. Mill Point provides excellent rock pooling opportunities and is very popular with school children.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 38 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

6.10 National Cycle Route 2 The national route runs through the Coastal Park on the Lower Sandgate Road and allows cyclists easy access to and through the park. Cycle racks have been integrated into the rear of artistic features so cyclists can stop and enjoy the park.

7 Nature Conservation and Heritage

7.1 Ecological Management

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 39 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

Prior to commencement of initial works on the Coastal Park, Folkestone & Hythe District Council carried out a habitat survey to establish the position at the time to provide a baseline. Kent Wildlife Trust (KWT) were engaged to produce this base study and from this White Cliffs Countryside Project prepared proposals for ecological management.

Working broadly with the recommendations and in conjunction with the documents mentioned above, a more detailed study was undertaken by in house staff. This was crucial in order to develop a flexible management programme that reflects the ever changing ecological needs and recognises the dynamics of biodiversity. It is also vital to ensure protection of the habitat of those species so rare as to be nationally important.

In addition to this it was hoped that such a study would ascertain which, if any, additional species had appeared as a result of some of the early works. It soon became clear that the Coastal Park and adjacent areas are in fact becoming more species rich because of the sensitive habitat maintenance. Due to the parks geographic location, geology and unique climatic conditions, nationally important species have now been recorded. The park is used by migrating species as a gateway to England and benefits from warm south westerly prevailing winds.

Of particular interest are two insects which, through close liaison with the Kent and Medway Biological Records Centre (KMRBC) have been confirmed as new records for the county. These are the Ivy Bee (Colletes hederae) and the Firebug (Pyrrhocoris apterus). While common on the continent, the firebug had only previously been recorded in the counties of Devon and Dorset so it was particularly encouraging to see that not only does the park support good populations but that the species was found to be breeding on site.

The Wildlife Habitat Survey highlights the possibility of hymenoptera (bee) species existing in the park. It is now known that these solitary bees are present in at least six locations within the park. The Manager is supporting a ‘bee friendly motion’ which was unanimously adopted at full Cabinet, to create and maintain bee and pollinator habitats with new wild flower turf being laid in the park.

Wasp Spiders (Argiope bruennichi), Slow worms (Anguis fragilis) and Clouded Yellow butterflies (Colias croceus) have all been spotted in the park.

Kent Wildlife Trust are engaged to provide rock pooling events (funded by FHDC) on Mill Point and the area is also included in their Shore Search calendar. These events are constantly adding to the species found, with the hairy crab (Pilumnus hirtellus), squat lobster (Lauriea siagiani) and chameleon shrimp (Praunus flexuosus) being recorded as new species for the area.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 40 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

7.2 Buildings, Footpaths and Structures

The Vinery The Vinery, built in the 30’s by the then Borough Council was, in its pre-war heyday, a well used facility providing a sheltered gathering and sitting space with glorious views over the English Channel and the Coastal Park. The contemporary photographs included in this document illustrate this and show that the shelter has not changed in its essential design and layout.

Part of the Coastal Park regeneration has been to completely restore the structure to its original condition. The original screens, largely missing their ‘glazing bars’, were also restored to original condition. The roof grid structure now forms a loggia to support rambling vines.

The Madeira Shelter This attractive shelter and viewing platform occupies a prominent position on The Leas promenade. This structure has importance both from a visual and amenity point of view. Minor maintenance issues such as repainting and cleansing are addressed by the Community Safety Officers.

The Metropole Steps These historically important steps at the western end of the park form a major link between The Leas and the Lower Sandgate Road. HLF funds were used to completely replace the steps with a timber staircase that could adapt to any movement of the cliff face, provide safe landings with the added benefit of resting areas and viewing platforms to soak up the panoramic maritime views.

Sea Wall Running the length of the park this walkway provides a major sea defence, a fully accessible route from Folkestone to Sandgate and a maintenance route for the beach nourishment programme. The Coastal Park staff ensure that vegetation is kept clear and contact cleansing as necessary. Life belts are positioned along the length of the coastline in Shepway. Each station is numbered and displays a telephone number in case of damage. The Technical Services Manager is responsible for checking life belts weekly.

Entrances and Thresholds

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 41 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 It is important to create and maintain colourful entrances to the park to give the correct impression on arrival. As with the rest of the park these important areas should be kept clean and tidy at all times. The two main entrances have large entrance signs which are cleaned and inspected for damage at least weekly.

Footpaths All paths are walked by staff on a daily basis and any new defects are noted and dealt with appropriately. Some footpaths have wooden sections particularly over steep or undulating land. These wooden sections have chicken wire overlaid to reduce the risk of slipping which is inspected regularly for damage. Litter and debris is removed daily and where grass edges exist these are kept neat and tidy.

Car Parks The western section of the Lower Sandgate Road is a pay and display car park with all proceeds returning into the Coastal Park budget. The staff keep this area free from litter and debris and planting on the verges helps to soften the impact of the road on the natural environment. The eastern section pay and display car park is a 2018 addition to help alleviate parking peak times. This car park, adjacent to the open space, is litter picked by FHDC cleansing contractor.

Zig Zag Path This completely man made structure forms one of the most impressive entrances to the park. Built in 1921 by local workers, this is arguably the most important piece of work by James Pulham. The Grade II listed cliff path features caves, grottoes, arches and numerous planting pockets. A basic shape was formed using recycled rubble and any other available materials then the special Pulham cement was applied using large combs to give a rock like effect. The recipe for the cement varied from site to site and each of the four Pulham brothers used a slightly different method. The skills and knowledge have been lost with time but various testing and analysis have gone some way to revealing the constituents. The railings have been designed to ensure they are sympathetic to the structure. The planting has been chosen to endure the harsh maritime environment and dry aspect.

The Leas

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 42 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 The Leas is closely associated with the Coastal Park, it comprises of a large expanse of high quality lawn interspersed with footways and seasonal flower beds. The entrance foyer for the Leas Cliff Hall and Channel Suite dominate the mile long cliff top with the Bandstand, RAF memorial, carpet bed and sensory garden also found here. The high standards of maintenance in the Coastal Park are continued through onto The Leas. The carpet bed features a different charity each year with the relevant logo depicted through intricate planting. A notice board displays information regarding the featured charity and money can be donated into a secure underground safe.

The Shoreline Another area closely associated with the Coastal Park is the shoreline which has been vastly improved since the coastal defence scheme took place in 2004. The scheme created sheltered bays suitable for swimming and water sports with a giant sand pit set into the shingle. The promenade now extends from Folkestone right through to Sandgate and is very popular for a gentle stroll and a wide range of running events. Beach cleaners are employed throughout the summer season and the Coastal Park staff report any cleansing issues to Cleansing department. Any fault with the beach or groynes is reported to the Engineers Department.

8 Sustainability

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 43 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 ______

Managing the Coastal Park in a sustainable manner is accepted as essential for its longevity. In the wider Council it is common place to consider sustainability in all functions.

Many daily activities can be reduced or made “greener” such as turning lights and other electrical items off and reducing the amount of paper used in the office. On the ground, felco secateurs and other small bladed tools are purchased where possible as replacement blades are available rather than having to buy a new pair.

Office and washroom lighting is now motion activated.

8.1 Vehicles and Machinery Council vehicles are purchased rather than leased and re-newed on a roughly 8 year basis. A procurement exercise looks in particular at economy, efficiency, localism, specification and servicing plans. New vehicles are purchased on a rolling programme in order to fit with available budget.

A fuel tank has also been purchased for Ross Depot which not only provides financial benefits but reduces non operational mileage and time.

The composting machine adds to the sustainability aspect of the parks management. After composting, green waste removed from the park is now re-used on site, eliminating the need to purchase compost. This addition of any composted material also reduces the need for watering and adds structure and nutrients to the soil.

Machinery is kept to a minimum with hand tools being used where ever possible. Using these more accurate methods of grounds maintenance encourages better plant health and also increases experience within the staff. The staff are also less susceptible to problems associated with excessive machinery use such as hand arm vibration syndrome (HAV). Noise pollution is also reduced within the park creating a quieter environment for visitors.

8.2 Recycling Boulders fallen from the cliff face have been used to create the story telling circle and bird baths along the Lower Sandgate Road. The boulders that form part of the wild flower meadow beneath the Leas Cliff Hall were originally excavated from the natural bedrock during construction of the sea defences.

Many of the features and general material within the park utilises wave worn timber originating from groynes removed during modernisation of sea defences. The columns at the amphitheatre were recovered from a salvage yard and are believed to be originally from a portico of a once fine mansion. Many of the ragstone walls were built using materials recovered from the Coastal Park during its construction period.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 44 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 The most important element of sustainability at the Coastal Park is the use of waste material in the construction of the Zig Zag Path in the 1920’s.

Visitors are encouraged to take their litter home. Those who chose not to can use over 30 bins provided on site. 2020 should see new compounds for recycling plastic. These will be strategically placed throughout the park and in use between April – October (high season) .

8.3 Horticulture Where public safety is not impeded, dead wood is left on site as wildlife habitat. Large dead trees which do not pose a risk should they fail are also left standing on site as raptor perches. This works particularly well in the formal zone where good populations of kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) exist. Excess wood is chipped on site and used as mulch for new tree planting or flower beds.

The composting machine based at the Hawkinge depot adds to the sustainability aspect of the parks management. After composting, green waste generated by the service is re-used on site, eliminating the need to purchase compost. Wood chip from tree felling operations is also used on mixed borders. Nearly 100% of all green waste produced by the department is recycled.

Following the summer season, hanging baskets are removed from throughout the district the grasses re-used in the Coastal Park. This type of re-use is to be taken forward and discussions with the Horticulture Officer continue to explore other suitable plants. Grape hyacinths (Muscari armeniacum) have been used in the winter bedding and planted out in borders following the change in seasonal bedding.

Plants which do not require watering are used and the general principles of xeriscaping followed. This method of design and planting uses environmentally sound techniques to create colourful areas which reduce water consumption, favour low maintenance species and provide excellent habitats for insects, in particular bees.

Xeriscaping plants used in the Coastal Park include Agave (Agave ferox, A. americana and A.salmiana), Eleagnus ebbingei and Oleria traversii. Regular digging over of run through areas has proved a deterrent and planting helps to reduce soil erosion. Mulching keeps plant roots cool and soil moist by preventing evaporation and drastically decreases weed growth.

The scree beds in particular demonstrate this method with their pebble “mulch” and carefully chosen plants such as Armeria maritima (Sea pink or Thrift), Pulsatilla vulgaris (Pasque flower), Geum and Stipa tennuissima. See photo section 5 for a picture of the xeriscaped beds.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 45 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Horticultural methods commonly employed within the park and across the service include:

 Deeply cultivate the soil, digging in large quantities of organic matter from Hawkinge compost site, to improve soil structure, soil retention and water availability for plants. Mushroom compost is sometimes used throughout our sites as well as composted bark chippings i.e. mulches.  Planting small specimens so the plant gets used to their growing environment gradually as they develop.  Planting grey-green or silver leaved specimens as they reflect the sun’s rays, helping to conserve moisture within the plant tissues.  Planting less hardy, silver leaved and sun loving plants in April help to establish their roots well before the winter arrives.  Thoroughly watering in new plants and keeping them watered for the first season after planting to ensure they establish well.  Using water from the canal to irrigate plants and trees (EA extraction license in place)  Use peat free alternative when purchasing plant and tree stock  Reduce grass cutting frequencies to increase park’s biodiversity and to decrease noise and fumes pollution and exposure to hand and arm vibrations

8.4 Furniture

The Coastal Park design guide is used for style continuity and to ensure that the items within the park adhere to the values, ethos and look of the area.

Most new furniture and play equipment is purchased through eibeplay who use sustainably sourced timber and whose products are sectional reducing the need to replace a whole bench when only one or two slats are faulty.

Arc Creative Design are used for one off and bespoke items where possible. This is due to their local premises, quality products, environmental ethos and an excellent working relationship which has built up over a number of years.

9 Marketing

9.1 Leaflet The Coastal Park leaflet continues to be very popular and has been updated with new photos and the Green Flag Award logo. Copies are available in a multitude of venues including the site office, Mermaid Café, Civic Centre, Folkestone Town Council and local hotels. The Manager ensures all venues

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 46 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 have sufficient stocks at the beginning of the season and stock can be replenished immediately following a phone call.

9.2 Facebook A page dedicated to the Coastal Park has been set up which advertises events, achievements and developments in the park. Members of the public can ‘like’ the page and upload their own photos, add comments, ask questions and share experiences. It has proved a popular page with ever increasing ‘likes’ and many visitors ‘checking in’ or ‘talking about’ the Coastal Park. Links with other local businesses and attractions help visitors and residents keep up to date with all that is happening in Folkestone and the surrounding area. Posters on site advertise the page.

9.3 Visitor Survey This can be completed online or during large events. The survey was designed in conjunction with the Royal Military Canal survey and this can be easily modified to different sites. In this way visitor perceptions of individual sites can be compared.

The survey highlighted the following  The majority of people surveyed were local residents, in small groups of adults and children  Only 5 visitors considered themselves (or someone with them) to have a physical impairment  Most visitors learned about the park through friends, family or local knowledge  Most people visit the park at least monthly  The most popular activities are walking, the play area, picnics and the beach  The fun zone is the most popular  The park is generally very tidy  Street furniture throughout the park is adequate  Visitors feel very safe when in the park  Top 3 answers to “what do you enjoy most about the Coastal Park?”  Play Area  Scenery  Child Friendly  Top 3 answers to “what do you enjoy least about the Coastal Park?”  Nothing  Not answered  Toilets  Half of all visitors were aware of the history and heritage of the park

Lastly the survey asks for further comments and suggestions and by far the most popular response to this was simply “more of the same please” appearing 10 times.

9.4 Interpretation and Signage

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 47 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 Part of the Heritage Lottery Fund grant was allocated to providing 13 interpretation panels. In addition to this FHDC added an entrance sign at either end of the park. These entrance panels depict an overview of the park and basic information including warning symbols e.g. No Camping.

It was decided that a replication of groynes would be appropriate and suitable for the locations. The sign at the formal zone is constructed from sustainably sourced oak and mirrors the existing groyne walls around the park entrance. For the wild zone entrance recycled groyne timber was used to blend in with the existing materials and the natural environment.

The interpretation panels cover both natural history and heritage of the park. The heritage panels are set in formal lectern style wooden mounts and the natural history panels are set in concrete plinths constructed in the same manner as Pulhamite.

Due to the number of events now taking place in the park 3 notice boards display information about the park and its events; one at the Amphitheatre, one at the eastern entrance and the last in the play area.

An old, flat wooden bridge within the wild zone needed replacement in 2012 and Hand Made Places were engaged to create a bespoke curved bridge depicting the fairytale, The Billy Goats Gruff. A wooden troll now sits beneath the bridge ready to pounce on the 3 goats, grazing nearby. The animals match the style of other play sculptures in the park and on the Royal Military Canal.

9.5 Web advertising

Folkestone & Hythe District Councils website has been redesigned and the information regarding the Coastal Park has been updated. The web page gives basic information about the park and links to other pages and external websites. The management plan and leaflet are available to download. The visitor survey and Grounds maintenance generic email address are also included.

The Coastal Park has received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor every year since 2014 earning the entry to the Hall of Fame. The manager monitors the entry and is able to respond to visitors queries where necessary. The Park features a No.1 tourist attraction in Folkestone.

The site is featured on the Green Flag Award website and in the annual People’s Choice Award. During 2015, the park was voted at number 20 in those awards, showing how popular it is with residents and visitors

9.6 Business Engagements and Shows

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 48 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 The regeneration department work hard to promote the park at different functions and events, locally, nationally and sometimes internationally. The Kent County Show is a perfect opportunity to encourage visitors to the area by showcasing what Shepway has to offer. Stands are set up with leaflets available and large posters with pictures of the Coastal Park.

9.7 In House Promotion

The Manager has been interviewed live by telephone on Pat Marsh’s BBC Radio Kent Show, promoting the Coastal Park and the upcoming events. This proved very successful with lots of visitors on the day saying they had heard about the events on the radio.

Copies of Green Flag Awards and TripAdvisor certificates are displayed in the reception area of the Civic Centre, with leaflets available as well.

9.8 Publications

Local author and illustrator, Marianne Roberts approached FHDC with an idea to write and illustrate a children’s book about the Coastal Park and Zig Zag Path. The book was written during 2010 and is now available from local cafes and bookshops. At the rear of every book a park leaflet is inserted in the specially made sleeve. This book has proved very popular with local stockists selling out before Christmas.

For more information see http://www.willandjake.co.uk

A book has been written regarding Pulhamite and its history. The Zig Zag Path features in this book as it is one of James Pulhams’ last pieces of rock work. For more information see http://pulham.org.uk

10 Community Involvement ------

10.1 Events Process Many community organised events take place in and around the Coastal Park in addition to ever successful programmes at the amphitheatre and bandstand. The Manager works closely with the Events Team and external partners to ensure that all events were safe, well attended and enjoyed by all. Folkestone & Hythe District Council produce events guidance online, aimed to help organisers plan and manage their events successfully.

Due to the very changeable weather and problems with the slippery grass surface of the amphitheatre a stage was purchased from local company Gopak in Hythe. This has been available to all performers at the amphitheatre,

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 49 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 was used by local bands, Folkestone Arts Co-operative and by Hawkinge Community Partnership for their annual Fun Day.

FHDC provide a series of events in the Coastal Park and Amphitheatre under a Service Level Agreement (SLA), using local arts and community groups to deliver the service. Kent Wildlife Trust tutors are engaged to provide 4 rock pooling events at Mill point which has been highly successful.

To ensure a full programme of events the officers promote the use of the amphitheatre and park to community groups. The venue is free to hire and in order to ease the whole process the Coastal Park now has a full premise license under which all events are held.

Terms and conditions have been drawn up which all organisers sign to ensure that all events are safe and within the terms of the premise licence held by the council. The council support all events by providing officer time and expertise and some equipment.

The Council now promotes ‘Apply4’ eventapp. Apply4 is a cloud based permitting platform which streamlines the application process. https://apply4.com

Customers apply and make payments online at the same time, enabling FHDC to issue permits as soon as the application has been approved. Messaging and document management tools help stakeholders and the Council to manage queries and communicate with ease.

The systems store contacts of all relevant stakeholders, allowing the Council to notify them at the touch of a button. Residents and other stakeholders tend to support events more when they are consulted in the process.

10.2 User Groups A wide variety of groups use the park for more informal and impromptu visits and these are noted down in the site diary, however many groups may visit without being seen by the staff.

School parties Visits are made by schools mainly from the Folkestone and the district area although schools from further away are not uncommon. There are certain educational themes which can be explored in the park including Victorian lifestyles, wildlife care and management and seashore activities. Many schools start the day with rockpooling, have lunch at the amphitheatre and spend the afternoon at the play area. Many groups from France visit the park with tutors coming back year after year to use the facilities. Due to the close proximity and links with France, the text on the interpretation panels was translated into French. This has been welcomed by students and French families visiting the area. While the

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 50 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 majority of groups are French; German, Italian and even Japanese groups have all enjoyed the park.

Special Needs Groups The park is popular with groups of all ages and abilities due to its easy access and facilities designed to encourage inclusive play. Many specialised groups use the park for walking, exercising and picnics, integrating naturally with all users.

Film Crews /Professional Photography Shoots Film crews usually arrange their visit through the press office and although some photo shoots are pre-arranged, many arrive unannounced.

Semi-professional photographers use the Coastal Park for scenic and landscape shots or will bring models to film. In addition to this many people use the park for wedding photographs.

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Dignitaries and Official Visits The Coastal Park is used to show Shepway’s finest assets and will often be visited by dignitaries, officers from other councils and members of the industry. Other councils often visit to look at the play area, landscaping and interpretation. In 2010 FHDC helped GreenSpace Southeast to host a Green Flag Demonstration Day where green space managers from across the region learnt more about the scheme and the Coastal Park.

Impromptu Events and Birthday Parties Many birthday parties take place in the park and large groups bring picnics and BBQ’s while children enjoy themselves in the park. Sometimes these will include children’s entertainment or face painters. In the same way schools sometimes bring their own entertainment in the form of Punch and Judy shows.

Miscellaneous Groups These include scouts and brownies, holiday clubs, after school groups and days out organised by the Childminders Association. Rock pooling activities are very popular with groups like the scouts while the play area is a firm favourite with holiday and after school clubs. A large family party of 150 Gurkhas visit the park annually as do a similarly large family group from Croydon, London.

10.3 Art Folkestone Triennial brings together local, national and international artists. Inclusion for all is a key ethos of the project and schools clubs and individuals are able to take an active role in the project itself and a whole range of fringe events and activities. The Coastal Park is a popular choice for artists and fringe events. The Folkestone Guidebook, Everywhere Means Something to Everyone, written by local residents, was produced by Strange Cargo and features the Coastal Park numerous times. Whether specifically named places

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 51 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 such as the Zig Zag Path, the play area or Amphitheatre, the Coastal Park continues to prove extremely popular and close to the hearts of residents. Folkestone & Hythe District Council have been approached by a community group who want to create a memorial garden for their children who have died. The group includes local artists who designed a garden with a zig zag path, stone pillars, a bench and reflecting stone ‘pool’.

The manager worked with the group to find a suitable site within the Coastal Park, advised on materials and assisted with funding streams. At the time of writing the group had just been granted a significant sum from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The design is shown below:

Many local artists have used the park as an inspiration for the art work. Their work can be seen in various galleries in Folkestone

10.4. Volunteers

Volunteering helps people connect with each other, with the wider community and perhaps most importantly the work of volunteers helps make our parks and open spaces even better.

Volunteers can support our work in many ways, from managing habitats and surveying wildlife to keeping our parks clean and safe. People have the chance to get involved with their local community, meet new people, develop your skills and learn more about the award winning Radnor Park.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 52 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020 FHDC is committed to making volunteering an enjoyable and safe experience. This will be reflected in the new Volunteer Charter and well-structured online volunteering events programmer both of which should come live in spring 2020.

11 List of Appendices

Appendices have not been included in the plan to keep the size of the document to a minimum but all the documents in the list below are available to view.

11.1 Service Plan

11.2 Corporate Plan

11.3 Leaflet

11.4 Visitor Survey

11.5 Interpretation and Information Panels

11.6 Event Terms and Conditions

11.7 Event Service Level Agreement

11.8 Various surveys from the start of the project

11.9 Risk Assessments and Safe Systems of Working

11.10 Volunteer Charter (draft version)

11.11 Play Area Review and Strategy (draft form)

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 53 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020

Folkestone & Hythe District Council 54 Lower Leas Coastal Park Management Plan 2016 - 2020