Connect 38 – the 80,500 sq ft office, restaurant and retail space designed by Canterbury-based Clague Architects, marks the first building launched in the Ashford Commercial Quarter, Ashford.
The building, the largest office block to be built in Kent for 20 years and already 75% let, marks the start of an exciting new chapter in Ashford’s story as the economic powerhouse of Kent.
The building’s name Connect 38, highlights the travel time between the town and St Pancras International in London aboard High Speed 1.
Karl Elliott, Managing Partner at Clague Architects, said: “Connect 38 marks a step-change in terms of the design and quality of commercial development being brought forward in Kent, and east of London.
“As a firm, with significant masterplanning experience, we’re currently finalising the much bigger vision for Ashford Commercial Quarter, which will ensure the town is well-placed to
welcome London and international firms looking for a well-connected new home.”
“With its rail links to London, Connect 38 and the forthcoming other buildings that make up Ashford Commercial Quarter, a masterplan we’re currently finalising for Quinn Estates, will ensure Ashford is a very strong destination for ambitious businesses.”
Already contributing to the success of Ashford’s ‘Big 8’ projects, Connect 38 has been developed by Quinn Estates in partnership with George Wilson Developments. Ashford Commercial Quarter will ultimately become a 600,000 sq ft office and retail campus.
Located adjacent to Ashford International Rail Station – linking the town with high speed services to London and Europe – the new building will support the creation of more than 480 full-time jobs.
Mark Quinn, CEO, Quinn Estates said: “Ashford Commercial Quarter is going to mark a new chapter for Ashford and sets the standard for office space in the South East.
“Connect 38 represents an extraordinary opportunity for businesses looking to relocate locally, or from London and further afield. The international train station is almost adjacent to the development site, making this an ideal commuting location.”
