Construction of a new café in a popular park is set to begin this week.

The new facilities at Mote Park in Maidstone will also include a larger toilet building and community space for meetings and group activities.

This represents the second phase of Maidstone Borough Council's £4.3 million investment in the redevelopment of the 440-acre park.

Cllr David Burton, leader of the council, said: "The past year has shown us how important being able to get out and enjoy beautiful green spaces is to our wellbeing.

"Therefore, we are thrilled that work is finally able to begin on these much-needed new facilities.

"The new buildings will include a changing places toilet for people with limited physical capacity as well as a flexible space which will be available all year round for local schools and community groups to hire.

"Improved landscaping and new surfacing will link the new facilities to the car park, where increased bicycle parking will also be provided."

The work, which is being carried out by BBS Construction Ltd, will see the existing café, toilet block and estates office demolished to open up the view of the lake.

It is hoped the new facilities will be open to the public next year.

Geoff Slee, director of BBS Construction, said: "We are thrilled to be part of this exciting opportunity to deliver the new park café and services building within the heart of Maidstone’s Mote Park.

"The new café will offer much improved facilities and will be enjoyed by generations to come."

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone