A park has undergone a major refurbishment thanks to a £5.1m project.

Ashford’s Victoria Park has an array of new facilities including a cafe, playground and refurbished nursery.

The revamp was part of The Victoria Park and Watercress Fields Project and delivered by Ashford Borough Council (ABC) and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Council bosses secured the cash for the regeneration in 2019. Some £3m was given by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and the other £1.4m was gained through contributions from the council, the Friends of Victoria Park and section 106 payments paid for by developers.

More than 1,000 people submitted feedback during a consultation process, with many stating the desire for a cafe, improved play area, toilets and better security.

The site now has a community building with new café, public toilets and nursery.

There is also now a huge playground which includes a climbing frame, swing, trampolines and a zipwire.

A colourful and fragrant sensory garden and a seasonal wetland area has also been created.

To mark the new additions to the area, the Victoria Park Extravaganza will be held on Sunday, July 23.

From 10am until 4pm, residents will be able to enjoy a funfair at the park.

Cllr Kate Walder, portfolio holder for recreation and public spaces said a huge amount of hard work has gone into the transformation of Victoria Park.

“The revamped park is beautiful and the design world-class with so much to offer.

“It is once again going to be a place to visit, enjoy and spend time with friends and family – the central hub for the community again.

“This Sunday’s Extravaganza event looks set to be a fantastic fun-filled day and I look forward to welcoming everyone along to enjoy it and see just how much this amazing park has to offer.”

Parking may be limited on the day due to popularity of the event but Victoria Road car park is nearby. More information on Victoria Road car park and alternative local car parks can be found on ABC’s website.