Dynamic plans for a new business hub in the South East, located in Ashford in Kent have moved a step closer to fruition after planning permission has been granted for the first phase of the Commercial Quarter.

The mixed-use development it next to Ashford's International Station and has the potential to deliver up to 590,000 sq ft of prime office space, 150 homes and several thousand jobs.

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: "The Commercial Quarter is one of our priority projects and will be important in ensuring the balanced growth of our town centre.

"Its significance has already been acknowledged by central government and approval of the detailed plans for the public realm works means the first phase of the development can start to be delivered."

Public realm works, expected to begin later this year, will transform the site into an attractive open area to draw in additional development, complete with enhanced pedestrian routes from the railway station and International House to the town centre.