Maidstone residents asked to share views on Lockmeadow’s future before consultation closes

Maidstone Borough Council is asking residents, visitors and market traders to say what they want from Lockmeadow — but the deadline is almost here.

Anyone who uses Lockmeadow — whether for the weekly markets, a riverside walk or a visit to the Market Hall — has until 19 October 2026 to tell Maidstone Borough Council what they think should happen to the site. The council posted a final reminder this week, saying views submitted through its online survey will help shape what Lockmeadow looks like and how it’s used.

The survey covers the whole Lockmeadow complex off the River Medway, including the Market Hall, the outdoor markets, riverside space and surrounding public areas. According to the council, potential improvements being considered include more trees and planting, increased biodiversity, new seating, flexible event and community space, and room for cafés and local businesses. The council says it wants to build on the site’s leisure, cultural and wellbeing offer and create a space that works year-round.

But the consultation hasn’t arrived without some background tension. Market traders faced a period of uncertainty earlier in 2026 after proposals involving vacant possession of parts of the site were discussed — raising fears about possible disruption to the existing markets. A council committee later moved to separate the future of the markets from any plans for the Market Hall itself, and called for public consultation to be held before detailed proposals moved further forward. Critics also questioned whether key decisions had been considered without sufficient public input at the outset.

It’s worth being clear about what this consultation is and isn’t. No final redevelopment scheme has been approved, and no costed plan for the site has been published. The survey is exploratory — gathering ideas before any detailed proposals are drawn up. That means residents can’t yet assess the likely cost to the council, the impact on parking and traffic around the site, or what any redesign might mean for access and the riverside environment.

Drop-in sessions were held in late September and early October, outside Unit 10 at Lockmeadow and at The Mall, for anyone who preferred to give their views in person. The online survey takes about four to seven minutes to complete, according to the council.

Key information

• Consultation closing date: 19 October 2026 (Maidstone Borough Council consultation page)
• How to take part: Search for the Lockmeadow Survey 2026 on Maidstone Borough Council’s consultation platform
• Time needed: About 4 to 7 minutes to complete the online survey
• What happens next: Responses will be used to shape future proposals for the site — no final scheme has been approved yet