Member Article

Ashford Designer Outlet Centre expansion to create 700 jobs

Plans to expand Ashford Designer Outlet Centre, which will create hundreds of jobs, were approved last night by councillors.

The 100,000 sq ft extension will add 40 new stores to the retail development, six restaurants and cafes as well as creating up to an additional 700 jobs. This is the first expansion since the centre, designed by Sir Richard Rogers, opened in 2000.

The existing outlet comprises 90 stores and currently attracts nearly three million visitors a year.

The expanded outlet centre has the potential to further Ashford’s international appeal, while creating stronger links to the station and having an offer that complements the town centre with different, branded retailers. Phase two is planned to open in 2018.

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “We are pleased to approve plans for the Designer Outlet expansion, which will transform it into one of the UK’s premier outlet centres.

“The expansion will bring an additional 40 stores including more of the best names in luxury, premium and designer fashion as well as creating a further 700 jobs, enhancing the whole shopping experience and providing stronger links with the town centre.

“The council welcomes the fact that another major investor in Ashford is showing so much confidence in the town’s future. The news symbolises Ashford’s growing reputation as a town attracting inward investment and high-calibre, quality brands.

“At the same time we are working hard to make sure that our town centre prospers. The construction of Ashford College, which is now underway, and the recent planning application for the new cinema, restaurants and hotel at Elwick Place are two good indications of the progress we are making as part of a wider set of plans to see a renaissance of our town centre, which will benefit the whole borough.”

Gary Bond, McArthurGlen’s Managing Director of Development, said: “With many major brands wanting to open at Ashford Designer Outlet, we are delighted to have obtained the support of Ashford Borough Council to deliver an even more compelling shopping experience to our customers in the Kent and London areas and the substantial number of tourists who visit.

“We are hugely excited about the opportunities that Ashford Phase 2 will bring to the town and to the wider county. We are now focused on the final stages required to enable building works to start next year.”

The planning committee unanimously approved the application, subject to the completion of a section 106 agreement, receipt of some amended plans and notification of the decision to the Secretary of State.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .