How can I report a problem on DDC land?
How do I know if DDC own the land?
A list of DDC owned parks and open spaces and play areas is available on our website. Road side verges are, in the main, owned by Kent Highway Services (KCC). Key roads, such as the A2 and A20 are the responsibility of Highways England.
Will you be cutting back the service?
No. By taking grounds maintenance back in-house we want to raise the standards of our parks and open spaces. We'll be able to deliver a higher quality, more consistent approach. Our aim is to raise the standard.
How will you raise standards?
We'll be able to deliver a more consistent, responsive and flexible service, and we'll have greater control over costs. We want to showcase the skills of our staff to create parks and open spaces that everyone can be proud of. We're already looking to achieve 'Green Flag' status for Russell Gardens and Kearsney Abbey.
What does the new grounds maintenance team do?
The team undertake day-to-day maintenance of Council owned open spaces, such as parks, sports pitches, cemeteries, and open spaces on housing estates. The people you see planting flower beds, trimming hedges, cutting grass, or tidying litter are directly employed by us from 1 April 2017.
Why are you taking the service back in-house?
We'll have more control over quality and consistency by employing our own team. We'll also be more flexible and better able to respond to issues than a contract-based service.
Will you be recruiting staff?
Initially, a team of 25 staff have been transferred across to DDC from the contractor (English Landscapes). We expect to recruit some additional seasonal staff and these vacancies will be advertised on the our website. Over time, we hope to offer horticultural apprenticeships.
Will you compete with the private sector for work?
The team will initially be focussed on raising the standards of Council-owned open spaces and being available to provide services to our Town and Parish councils.
Can I get involved?
Yes! Everyone can help us by taking pride in the parks and open spaces. Remembering to take your litter home, clearing up after your dog, and reporting any anti-social behaviour in our parks is a great starting point. There will also be opportunities to volunteer, such as our Heritage Lottery funded project at Russell Gardens and Kearsney Abbey.
Where will the new team be based?
We have created a new grounds maintenance depot at Connaught Park in Dover. From here, the team will work across the district.
How much have you invested in new equipment?
We have invested £400,000 in new equipment for the service, including vans, lawn mowers, gardening equipment, staff uniforms and appropriate safety wear.