Conningbrook Lakes Masterplan gets the thumbs up

Ashford Borough Council’s cabinet have approved a draft masterplan for Conningbrook Lakes Country Park which will provide a mix of recreational facilities for residents and visitors alike to enjoy while protecting the rich natural environment.

Since planning permission was granted for the Country Park in 2014, various works have been completed to enable limited use of the park. These include a basic access road, new permanent concrete slipway, temporary storage facilities and an aeration system being installed in the lake.

One of the aims of the draft masterplan is to develop these temporary facilities and provide them on a permanent basis along with a new children’s destination play area, picnic areas, access paths, public art, car parking, a new access road and enhanced conservation/landscaped areas.

Funding for the proposed works in the country park is being provided by section 106 payments linked to the housing development that is currently under construction on land immediately adjacent to the main lake. The delivery plan for completing the park is expected to take five to seven years as this funding becomes available.

Cabinet have also agreed to enter into an agreement with Bretts (the freeholder) in order to progress to the next phase of residential development at the site as well as the country pub/hotel.

Within the masterplan there is a section that includes options for incorporating other features within the park at a later date, subject to further funding and planning approval being secured at the relevant time.

The draft plan will now be placed on the Council’s consultation portal for six weeks for further feedback and comment.

Cllr. Peter Feacey, portfolio holder for Culture, Tourism and Leisure, said:

“I fully endorse this exciting project as it will supply a fantastic recreational facility for the residents of Ashford as well as provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich natural environments that the park has to offer.”