Smoke-Free Spaces Evaluation

We have a vision of a healthier Maidstone for everyone.

The impacts of smoking are well known, but second-hand smoke (smoke from other people's cigarettes) is also incredibly toxic both inside and outside.

We were awarded grant funding from Kent County Council to promote areas of Maidstone as smoke-free. In April we asked people, via signs, to refrain from smoking or vaping in areas outside of public buildings including the Town Hall, Maidstone Museum, Maidstone Carriage Museum, Maidstone Railway Station, County Hall, Lockmeadow, Fremlin Walk Bandstand, the Mall, as well as in children's play areas and our parks and green spaces.

We are asking people to not smoke or vape in these areas so that the air quality for everyone is improved as they enter and exit buildings, and smoke does not drift into buildings causing further harm.

How to get involved

Before the signs were installed we asked Maidstone residents for their thoughts and opinions on smoking and vaping in Maidstone. Now the signage has been in place for 5 months, we are asking people again to see if anything has changed.

Officers will be out and about in Maidstone Town Centre and at some of our parks and green spaces to find out what people think about smoking in public spaces on 17^th and 24^th September.

Survey - You can also complete the survey online.

Consultation closes: 26 October 2025.

What Next?

Smoke free spaces was launched at the end of March. We have now started offering signage to businesses, voluntary and community groups as well as schools and colleges. We also have resources and support available for people to give up smoking. We will continue to hold events to promote Smokefree Spaces and help people give up smoking and vaping.

We will also compile the results of the two surveys completed and publish the outcomes. The Smoke free spaces will be in place in Maidstone long-term.