Parents in a community have criticized a local children’s play area, describing it as the most dismal park in the area due to issues with rats, dog waste, and litter. The West End Quarter play area, developed by Bellway Homes near Westbrook Drive and Shorncliffe Road in Folkestone, has deteriorated over time, with overflowing bins, pests, and limited play equipment making it unsuitable for children, according to concerned families.
Adam Groombridge, a local resident who often passes by the park with his young daughter, expressed his dissatisfaction with the condition of the play area, stating that it is too unpleasant for his child to play in. Upon noticing the overflowing bin filled with dog waste, Groombridge took action by contacting the park authorities, but the cleanup efforts have been slow and inadequate.
The play area, located next to Folkestone College, lacks attractive features for children, with minimal play equipment consisting mainly of benches, wooden poles, a slide, and a seesaw. Groombridge highlighted the park’s unappealing nature, mentioning that it fails to engage children for more than a brief moment due to the lack of activities.
Although the park was constructed by Bellway Homes as part of a housing development, its maintenance is overseen by Gateway PLC. Groombridge criticized the management’s response to his complaints, stating that their actions have been insufficient and delayed. He also raised concerns about the presence of rats in the area, recounting instances where he witnessed the rodents, which further deterred him from allowing his daughter to play there.
Residents, including Danni Golding and Ruth Deakin, have echoed Groombridge’s frustrations, citing ongoing issues with overflowing bins and inadequate upkeep that have persisted for years. Complaints have been made regarding the infrequent emptying of the small bin, with residents questioning the effectiveness of maintenance efforts in the area. Bellway Homes has distanced itself from the situation, clarifying that maintenance responsibilities were transferred to the managing agent after the development handover.
Efforts to address the park’s deteriorating condition continue, with residents and local authorities seeking improvements to ensure a safer and more enjoyable environment for children. Gateway PLC has been contacted for further comments on the matter.
