Tovil has a new 29-acre nature reserve.

The land, which will be known as Hayle Park, was formerly part of the Hayle Place Stud Farm, but was set aside for community use as one of the conditions of a grant of planning permission for housing development on the remainder of the stud farm site.

Developer Taylor Wimpey is now well advanced in constructing 130 homes on the adjacent plot, which will be accessed from Postley Road.

The nature reserve is now owned by a trust, comprising three representatives each from Maidstone Borough Council, from Tovil Parish Council and from the Valley Conservation Society.

The latter group, which already owns and cares for several acres of community land in the Loose Valley, will take on the day-to-day management of the park.

The official hand-over was attended by the Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Clive English, who played a large part in the earlier discussions with the stud farm’s former owner, nightclub boss Aaron Stone, which secured the parkland for the community.

In addition, Taylor Wimpey was obliged to pay £500,000 to the trust towards its establishment and future management.

Joanna Webb, for Taylor Wimpey South East, said: “The site will now be safeguarded for public use and we hope local people make the most of this attractive green space on their doorsteps.”

The Valley Conservation Society holds regular Tuesday work parties, but with the extra land in its care, will need more volunteers. Anyone who can help should contact the VCS chairman Bryn Cornwell on 01622 746514.

Property-seekers who would like to find out more about the new homes at Hayle Park can visit the sales suite in Loose Road, open daily from 10am to 5pm. Or ring 01622 238336.