Exploring Walking Networks in Maidstone

Are your streets right for you? How do you feel as you walk around Maidstone, to visit the hospital, see friends, or simply go for a walk in the park?

Living Streets are working with Footways on a pilot project funded by Active Travel England to better understand what Maidstone’s streets are like for walking and wheeling, especially around Maidstone Hospital. We will look at new ways of identifying walking and wheeling networks in locations in five towns and cities across England. This work will contribute to developing new approaches to make sure local people are spoken with when considering how things might be improved.

Footways will guide small-group discussions using both digital and paper maps to gather your experiences of walking and wheeling in the local area – identifying barriers, opportunities, and everyday routes that matter to you. The session will also include a short guided walk (about 1 hour, with stops for observation and discussion) to explore local streets firsthand and reflect on what supports or hinders movement and access. We’ll wrap up with time for reflection, and opportunities to share feedback in the way that suits you: digitally or on paper.

Whether you walk, wheel, use mobility aids, push a buggy, or are simply curious about shaping safer, more inclusive and connected streets, your voice matters.

We will run two sessions; one in the morning from 10am to 12.30pm, and one in the afternoon from 1.30pm to 3pm. You're welcome to drop in to either session at any time which suits you best and stay for as long as you like. The walk will take place at 11.30am.

If you have any queries or would like more information please get in touch at campaigns@livingstreets.org.uk

Living Streets are the UK charity for everyday walking, working to achieve a better walking environment and inspire people to walk and wheel more.

Footways is a network of quiet and enjoyable routes for walking, connecting major places with appealing and accessible streets.