A new trampoline park in Gillingham has now officially opened its doors.

Soar has turned an empty warehouse in Courteney Road into a modern activity centre for children and adults.

Planning permission for the trampoline park was granted by councillors despite it being recommended for refusal.

It comes at a time of improved sporting facilities in the area, including a huge tennis centre being built in Featherby Road, Gillingham, and another trampoline centre proposed for Chatham Maritime.

Soar director, Reg Thompson, is hoping to see plenty of people through the door during its first weekend of operation.

The 67-year-old said: “We have had lots and lots of good press and good comments, with people saying they cannot wait to get in.”

The centre will have around 100 interconnected wall-to-wall trampolines, offering general bounce sessions, fitness classes, tutoring, children’s parties, corporate team building, parent and toddler sessions and disco nights.

It will also have two extreme dodgeball courts, a stunt foam pit with a high platform, a wiggle ladder and battle beam.

It will also offer reduced rates for local autistic societies and invite local schools to use the facilities.

Reg added: "We set out to make this a community project and we will be working with local autistic societies to provide sessions at a reduced rate.

“Trampolining is a very therapeutic exercise for children with autism. We will also offer it to local schools – they take kids swimming so why not trampolining?”

For more information search Soar Trampoline Park, Gillingham, on Facebook or visit www.soartrampolinepark.co.uk