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Plans for a 60-bedroom hotel in Ashford, Kent, have been given the go ahead in an effort to capitalise on the town’s growing tourist economy.
The hotel will be part of a £75m development on a vacant brownfield site which will also include a six screen cinema, eight restaurant and bar spaces, 280 parking spaces and a public space area.
The 6.4-acre site, opposite Debenhams, was originally the location of the Kent town’s cattle market but the new facilities are hoped to “transform” the town’s night-time economy.
The development, – brought forward, and accepted, to Ashford Borough Council by property developer firm Stanhope – is expected to create around 250 new jobs.
Leader of Ashford Borough Council, Cllr Gerry Clarkson, said: “We’re delighted to see these exciting proposals move one step closer. A town centre cinema, set around a new square with places to eat and drink, will be a real draw and will help to bring extra vitality to the town centre during the day and evening.
“The old historic market gates will be incorporated into the landscaping to reflect a part of our history.”
A second phase of the development, which will be considered the planning committee early next year, is the addition of up to 200 apartments.
