Ashford sets out 2012 plans

Ashford intends to make 2012 a big year for both residents and visitors.

Ashford Borough Council’s cabinet has approved plans to create a programme of events to mark the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee next year.

The Diamond Jubilee celebrations will take place in June, while the Olympic Games are scheduled between Friday 27th July and Sunday 12th August, and the Paralympic Games between Wednesday 29th August and Sunday 9th September.

With these significant national events in mind, the council is exploring options for a programme of events that will allow Ashford residents to join in on the celebrations, and attract the swell of visitor’s next year’s events are expected to bring to the South East.

The cabinet agreed to release £13,500 from the council’s reserves to fund the projects, which they expect will provide a lasting legacy and economic benefit to the community.

Among the events planned are ‘Open Up and Try’’ which will allow people to try out the borough’s leisure centres, sports clubs and tourist attractions and a healthy lifestyles programme.

Funding will also support an international athletics event for juniors at the Julie Rose Stadium.

To mark the Queen’s Jubilee, there are plans to participate in a nationwide lighting of beacons on 4th June 2012.

The council also plans to widen the distribution of the Ashford and Tenterden Tourism Association brochure to attract more visitors to the borough, and aims to create an online accommodation booking system for visitors in conjunction with Visit Kent.

There will also be business and marketing help for any businesses and landowners who set up camping and caravanning sites for the Olympics.

Portfolio holder for sport and youth Cllr William Howard said: “2012 promises to be an exceptional year in Ashford and around the world.

“These plans do not only provide opportunities at a sensible cost to celebrate and take part in activities, but more importantly they should provide a lasting legacy for residents in Ashford both economically and in sport."

Media release 0225/11
20/10/2011