An open day will take place next month as a £40million park on the site of a former colliery edges closer to its grand opening.

Betteshanger Sustainable Parks is due to host its official opening on March 30, 2019 but, prior to that, locals will get a chance to be updated on progress at the 121-hectare site near Deal on Saturday, November 3.

Once complete, the site will include a visitor centre encompassing the Kent Mining Museum, walking trails and outdoor play equipment.

Also as part of the first phase of development will see the creation of a 6,000m2 business incubation hub.

Guests who pre-book for the open day can take part in a hard hat tour of the building site, giving them a glimpse of the facilities to come. They will also have the opportunity to speak to the team about plans for the Kent Mining Museum, which has been designed to celebrate and preserve Kent’s coal mining heritage, plus membership and volunteering opportunities.

Work on the park's transformation started in 2014.

Richard Morsley, director of Betteshanger Sustainable Parks, said: “We have been on a long journey to provide much improved facilities for the local community. The end is in sight and the team is excited about what lies ahead. We are using the quieter winter period to prepare for the opening and to ensure the site will be looking its best come March. Landscaping is an important part of the design so we need to give it time to bed in.”

Demolition of the old café and visitor centre, cycle hire and park office will begin week commencing Monday, November 5. However, at the same time a temporary space in the car park will open providing a small café, toilets and cycle hire.

The open day runs from 10am to 3pm. To book a tour visit its website.