Park Mall temporary car park: additional pedestrian access

In September, Cabinet considered a motion and public petition calling for a short pedestrian route between the temporary Park Mall car park and the High Street. 

Supporters said a second access would improve convenience and accessibility, help town-centre businesses and give visitors a more direct route.

The meeting discussion balanced those benefits against safety concerns. The existing route via St George’s Square was designed following advice from Kent Police’s Designing Out Crime Officer, prioritising a well-lit route with natural surveillance. 

Some Cabinet members felt a second access could be designed safely with suitable mitigation, while others said the potential risks, particularly for people travelling alone or who may be vulnerable, needed to carry greatest weight.

After a lengthy debate, Cabinet agreed to continue building and open the Park Mall temporary car park under the existing approved access arrangements, while also progressing a detailed design for a second pedestrian access (Option 2). The design must reflect police safety advice and equality impacts, and required permissions will be sought. 

Subject to permissions construction of the second access will be procured as soon as possible after the Park Mall temporary car park opens. This is currently on schedule to open to the public before Christmas 2026.