Launched today, Kent County Council's (KCC) public consultation seeks views on relocating the InfoZone Family Hub services currently delivered from 3 Palace Avenue into the wider Family Hub network across the District.
Under the proposal aimed at making better use of existing facilities, and increasing access to support, the Palace Avenue building would no longer operate as a Family Hub, and
- Parkwood Family Hub - would become Maidstone's largest and main Family Hub, making use of space vacated by a former nursery to offer an expanded range of services
- Former East Borough Children’s Centre, on Vinters Road - would reopen to provide an additional Family Hub location close to Maidstone town centre
Existing Family Hubs at Greenfields, Westborough and Southborough would continue to operate.
Outreach and community-based support would also continue to be delivered in, and around, Maidstone.
The call for comments on the proposed relocation runs until midnight, 17 November 2026.
Read the consultation and complete the questionnaire online.
“We’re particularly keen to hear from local families and community organisations to help us shape our next steps”
KCC Cabinet Member for Integrated Children's Services, Paul Webb, said: "From parenting courses to wellbeing advice, Family Hubs provide a range of key support for Kent children, young people and parents. It’s important we continually assess these vital services are meeting the needs of the local community.
“It’s also clear InfoZone is costly to maintain and needs significant refurbishment to continue providing Family Hub services. In particular, substantial works would be needed to bring the building's first floor back into safe operational use.
"In contrast, East Borough is modern, and in good condition, with safe space for play, learning, groups, appointments and partner services. Parkwood can also easily be further developed.
Parkwood would become Maidstone's main Family Hub if the changes set out in the consultation were to go ahead
"Everyone's aware of the County Council's financial pressures and we have to make best use of all our buildings. The proposed changes cut maintenance costs, give us options around the future of the InfoZone building - and a bigger and better Family Hub network for Maidstone.
“However, no final decisions will be taken until we’ve heard what residents think. We’re particularly keen to hear from local families and community organisations to help us shape our next steps."
Help to have your say
For support to take part, paper copies and ask questions: email maidstonefh@kent.gov.uk or phone 03000 419 470.
For consultation material in another format or language:
- email alternativeformats@kent.gov.uk
- call 03000 421 553
- text relay: 18001 03000 421 553.
Both phone numbers go to answering machines monitored in office hours.
