Haysden Country Park could get new management, but don’t panic, the ducks are not signing leisure contracts yet

Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council is looking at whether Haysden Country Park could be managed differently in the future, with a specialist leisure provider potentially taking on responsibility for the much-loved local park.

Before anyone starts chaining themselves to a picnic bench, the council has stressed that no decision has been made. At this stage, councillors have only approved a recommendation to commission a full cost-benefit analysis into whether transferring management to the Tonbridge and Malling Leisure Trust would be a good move for the park’s long-term future.

In normal human language, this means the council is asking: would Haysden be better looked after under a different management model, or should things stay as they are?

The proposal comes as the council looks at how to secure future investment for the park, especially with local government reorganisation expected in 2028. Any option being considered would need to protect free public access, maintain services for the community, look after the natural environment and support environmental stewardship.

So, for now at least, there is no suggestion that people will need to scan a QR code before feeding their soul with a walk around the lake.

Haysden Country Park is not exactly a small patch of grass with one tired bench and a suspicious bin. The 160-acre park has held the Green Flag Award for 20 consecutive years and is recognised by Natural England. It is also designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest, which means it matters not only to walkers, runners, cyclists and families, but also to wildlife.

And let’s be honest, probably also to every dog in Tonbridge that thinks the park belongs personally to them.

The Tonbridge and Malling Leisure Trust has expressed early interest in the idea. The not-for-profit organisation already manages Leybourne Lakes, as well as Poult Wood Golf Centre, Larkfield Leisure Centre, The Angel Centre and Tonbridge Swimming Pool on behalf of the council.

Councillor Des Keers, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said it was “very early days” and repeated that no decision had been made.

He said: “We know that Haysden Country Park is treasured by the people of Tonbridge and beyond, which is why we are exploring whether a different management model, working with a leisure specialist, would be a more effective way to maintain environmental standards, maintenance, accreditations and concessions at the park."

“We’re not making a decision at this stage - this is about understanding our options and ensuring that the park continues to be maintained to the high standards that have been established by the Council for generations to come.”

The council will now commission the cost-benefit analysis and share the findings with relevant stakeholders before any further consideration by council members.

For residents, the main message is probably this: Haysden is not changing hands tomorrow, there is no final decision, and the park is not suddenly becoming a theme park, spa resort or luxury duck retreat.

But it is worth watching closely, because Haysden is one of Tonbridge’s best-loved green spaces, and any future management change will need to prove that it protects what people already value about the place: free access, wildlife, open space, peace, and somewhere decent to walk off a Sunday roast.

This article is based on the original announcement from Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council. You can read the full council statement here: Council to explore possible new management approach for Haysden Country Park