Stanhope has secured consent for a £75m plan to transform a vacant brownfield site in Ashford into a boutique cinema, hotel and restaurants.
The 2.6 ha site was originally part of the Kent town’s cattle market and is now expected to inject a new lease of life into the town’s night-time economy.
A second phase, which will comprise 200 homes, will be put before planning inspectors next year.
Leader of Ashford borough council, Gerry Clarkson, said: “The old historic market gates will be incorporated into the landscaping to reflect a part of our history.
“It complements the major investment that has already taken place in the County Square Shopping Centre and Elwick Road shared space project, and is yet another example of the private sector seeing the opportunities that Ashford can offer.
“In a few years’ time the town centre will look very different, with a new college being built, the Designer Outlet being extended and the office development in our commercial quarter moving forward.”
