Ashford is designated one of four major growth areas in the government’s Sustainable Communities Plan, alongside the Thames Gateway, Milton Keynes and Stansted/M11 corridor.

Ashford is expected to double in size by 2031, generating 28,000 new jobs and accommodating 31,000 new homes thanks to £650m investment plans. Several commercial developments are already underway in and around the town, which are likely to boost job figures further. A £65m extension to Ashford’s County Square shopping centre is underway as is the first phase development at Eureka Business Park. The Annual Business Inquiry suggests that the number of businesses in Ashford borough grew by 29% between 1998 and 2005, which is almost double the rate in the South East as a whole (at 16%). In addition, high speed trains will operate domestic services on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link in Kent from 2009.

Abigail Raymond, acting managing director for Ashford’s Future, said: “The introduction of high speed services will slash train journeys from Ashford to London by almost half to 37 minutes, which is a major selling point for Ashford as a business location. Coupled with good road links and office rents that are 70% lower than in London, Ashford is becoming an increasingly attractive prospect for investors.”