The final piece in the jigsaw for the transformation of a major brownfield site in the growth town of Ashford has been approved.
Property regeneration company U+I’s proposals for a 120-bedroom hotel in Victoria Way have been given planning permission by Ashford Borough Council. Plans by Carrington Group to build 59 apartments just off Victoria Way in Victoria Crescent were also given the green light. The scheme includes a block of 28 one- and two-bedroom homes and another block of 31 one- and two-bedroom homes.
The decision follows hot on the heels of U+I being granted planning approval last month for a £55 million scheme featuring an 18,500 sq ft Aldi supermarket, 216 homes, and a brewery and visitor centre. Chapel Down will open the brewery to expand sales of its award-winning Curious Brew brand along with a visitor centre including a shop, restaurant and bar.
In June a new mixed-use regeneration project at the old Powergen site in Victoria Way, to include 660 homes, new public realm and a café, was also given planning consent. It will be delivered by U+I in partnership with developer Quinn Estates and specialist private rented sector operator, Neighbour.
Richard Upton, Deputy CEO of U+I, said: “This is the final piece of the puzzle – we are delighted that the last part of planning permission has been granted for the Victoria Way development, which will ensure our aim to create a fantastic new destination for Ashford can be realised in full.
“The hotel and apartments will inject new life in to the currently unused site, and complement our broader ambition of delivering a mixed-use scheme for the local community – helping Ashford’s economy continue to thrive by delivering new job opportunities as well as high quality housing.”
Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “The council welcomes another development proposal coming forward, which joins a growing number of recent schemes which are set to change the face of the town by creating exciting opportunities to encourage economic growth, provide business and leisure facilities and build quality homes to live in. It is clear for all to see that we are endeavouring to be positive as an authority and are continuing to place our faith in a revived and reinvigorated town centre. This is being matched by the private sector who can see the investment potential the town has. With all these exciting developments now coming to fruition, Ashford’s dynamic growth is set to continue – these are really exciting times for Ashford.”
For more information about economic development in Ashford visit www.ashfordfor.com
