Article published on 13 August 2026
A new £750,000 coastal play park has opened in Lower Leas Coastal Park in Folkestone. This has elevated the existing site into the self-proclaimed “largest free adventure playground in the South-East”.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council aimed to improve access across this site. It helped users of all abilities enjoy all 15 zones equally. Following this bold vision, few play companies felt capable of delivering. However, Proludic loves a challenge and put together a winning design that matched the scale of the Council’s ambition.
The play space reflects the Coastal Park’s biodiversity, and the design incorporates wildlife throughout. Bespoke timber climbing structures, rubbing posts and colourful plaques celebrate the natural surroundings. Children can also enjoy a downloadable activity sheet that encourages them to go off the beaten track.
This destination site needed an epic focal point that provides wow factor, risk and challenge. This comes in the form of a gigantic 5-tower timber play structure featuring a hexagonal deck linked by a SUDS-bond path, ensuring users of all abilities can play together and experience the joy of playing at height. The towers offer high visibility throughout, so children can see their guardians, and guardians can see them.
A unique Arborea unit wraps around a tree trunk. It encourages children to explore nature up close. It also helps them build teamwork skills. Additionally, a bespoke Robinia bee unit lets the youngest visitors try climbing and sliding in a fenced area. It also gives little ones much-needed shade during hot summer months.
Cllr Connor McConville of Folkestone & Hythe District Council said he hopes this site will become the district’s flagship play area and that their investment has really paid off and will delight the next generations.
The park also boasts a challenging 60-metre agility trail, featuring Monkey bars (J4909), Balance Beams (J4903), Japanese Steps (J4904) and a Vertical Net (J4913). We completed the installation on budget and on time, to the highest standards. We achieved this despite extreme weather, including torrential downpours and two record heatwaves..
The playground opened with great fanfare. At the opening event, over a thousand visitors walked through the custom “Welcome” sign. Guests enjoyed free ice creams courtesy of Proludic, while goodie bags were distributed to younger visitors.
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