Commitment to wildlife centre continues - council

The Romney Marsh Visitor Centre closed at the end of July

Folkestone and Hythe District Council has said it is "committed to the future" of the Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, despite the facility having closed at the end of July.

The centre had been run by Kent Wildlife Trust, on behalf of the council, but the trust said it had decided "with a heavy heart" not to renew the lease.

The Romney Warren Nature Reserve, where the centre is located, remains open.

The council said options were being considered, with more announcements expected later in the year.

Cabinet member for assets and operations, Jeremy Speakman, said the council was "committed to the future of the visitor centre and values this award-winning eco-friendly building and area as an incredibly important community and wildlife asset".

He said the site had been supported by previous tenants and volunteers so the council would "endeavour to ensure that their work in making sure this rich natural environment is preserved for years to come is continued".

In a statement on its website, the Kent Wildlife Trust said: "It is with a heavy heart we have decided not to renew our lease and will be handing the keys back to Folkestone and Hythe District Council.

"We’re hugely thankful to our wonderful staff and incredible volunteers, who have helped turn the centre and gardens into the beautiful wildlife haven and community hub that it is today.

"We’re hopeful this will give a new opportunity for another local organisation to take it on and go on to safeguard this site for future generations."