Construction work is underway on a £90 million shopping centre expansion project in Ashford.

McLaren Construction is carrying out work at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Ashford to add a new section onto the existing 185,000 sq ft. centre.

The 100,000 sq ft scheme will add 50 new luxury and premium brands for shoppers, attracting five million visitors to Ashford per year by 2023.

The facility, which will create 500 new jobs, is scheduled to open in autumn 2019.

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Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony today, 29 March, Council Leader Gerry Clarkson said: "The expansion of the Designer Outlet will transform it into one of the UK's premier outlet centres, enhancing the shopping experience and providing a complementary offer to our town centre.

"This illustrates the confidence that major investors have in Ashford and the borough's future. It is clear that we are gaining a growing reputation as a town attracting inward investment and high-calibre, quality brands."

Peter Corr, Centre Manager of McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, said: "It is pleasing to see work start on another one of our Big 8 projects which together will transform the fortunes of the borough."

(LM)