Stanhope’s vision for Elwick Place, which represents more than £75 million of investment into Ashford town centre, has taken a step closer. The developer has submitted the second of two eagerly-anticipated planning applications for the site to Ashford Borough Council.
The submission follows Stanhope’s public exhibition held over two days in July this year, which attracted more than 1,000 visitors keen to learn more about the mixed-use proposals. Analysis of over 200 written feedback forms received during the public exhibition revealed almost 90% of respondents are supportive.
The planning applications, which include a new six-screen boutique cinema, a 60-bed family hotel, restaurants and cafés, homes, car parking and a space for events and community uses, promise to transform the brownfield site in Ashford town centre, which lies empty.
Hundreds of new jobs are set to be created through the development, both during the construction process and in the long-term.
Councillor Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “We’re delighted that proposals are coming forward for this important site in the town centre, which shows further evidence that investors are seeing the potential of Ashford. We need to improve what the town can offer for residents and visitors therefore multi-million pound private sector interest to help this happen is very welcome. The details of this application will be carefully considered by the Planning Committee and, of course, we are very keen to hear local people’s views on Stanhope’s proposals.”
Gary Bourne, Director at Stanhope, said: “This important milestone represents the fruition of over four years of work by a dedicated team, which has worked closely with Ashford Borough Council. We have met hundreds of local people and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The main message we hear is that people in Ashford want to see this happen, and we are absolutely committed to meeting – and exceeding – the justifiably high aspirations of the local community to deliver a truly outstanding development.”
