Planning has been approved to build 660 new homes on derelict land in Kent.

Developer U+I will deliver the housing in partnership with Quinn Estates and private rented sector (PRS) specialist Neighbour at the former Powergen site at Victoria Way in Ashford.

In addition, new public realm and a cafe will also be built.

Designed by Guy Hollaway Architects, the units consist of one, two, and three-bedroom flats along with 25 houses.


U+I has also purchased a second six-acre site from the Homes and Communities Agency opposite Ashford International train station.

Designs are currently underway and it is predicted the proposed development would contain 200 residential units, a 120-bed hotel, an Aldi food store, and a new brewery for alcoholic drink company Chapel Down. Over 165 new jobs would also be created.

Richard Upton, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of U+I, said: "It is great news that planning permission for the first of two sites at Victoria Way has been granted. Ashford's thriving local economy, excellent transport links and the council's ambitious regeneration plans reinforce its position as an important town within the London City Region and we're excited to be working here."

(LM)