SC22297 - Colemans Kitchen Woods Chilmington

Kent County Council are looking for a supplier to create surfaced access points into Colemans Kitchen Wood and neighbouring field. By doing this we hope to increase number of people into the woods which will align with Ashford Borough Councils plans to promote the local wildlife. Another requirement of the project is to provide a full surfaced route suitable for all users from Colemans Kitchen Wood to Chilmington Green Lane which will ensure residents and future residents have a safe route to access the woods and the Environmental Centre. The works align with Ashford Borough Councils strategic development for the Chilmington Development as Ashford Borough Council plan to build parks and play areas around the woods so by improving access to the woods it will make it easier and more appealing for residents to access. One key part of the specification is replacing the existing stiles with metal gates to make the paths accessible for wheelchair users and those who are less mobile. These gates will be supplied by Kent County Council and will be opening two ways so that people coming from both directions will be able to push the gate open. We have also asked for improved signage in the area so people are aware they are using the Public Right of Way Network and can see the impact Kent County Council is having on the local community. This will also be helpful as people can look up the local footpath network and start to plan either leisure activities or commuting to the local school based on this network.