Purpose

Cabinet considered a report on 22 February 2024 recommending the establishment of an Ashford Parks Foundation following the work of a cross-party Task and Finish Group.

The report concluded that a Foundation would provide a dedicated mechanism to deliver additional value in the borough’s parks through fundraising, volunteering, community engagement and project delivery, while ownership and day-to-day management of parks would remain with Ashford Borough Council.

Cabinet agreed in principle to create the Foundation, delegated authority to officers to develop the necessary governance and legal arrangements, and noted proposals to align future staffing arrangements to support its establishment.

Following further development work, a meeting was held on 18/05/2026 to confirm authority to submit the Ashford Parks Foundation registration documents. Having reviewed the governance position and the Foundation’s strategic objectives, it was agreed that registration should proceed.

Decision

Proceed with registration.

Alternative options considered

Option 1 - Not to proceed with registration.
Option 2 - Seek further information.
Option 3 -Proceed with registration.