THIS is what a transformation of Northfleet's embankment area might look like if proposals go ahead.

Northfleet is set to receive 1,800 homes and a new school after cement works shut in 2008.

A planning application will be submitted for the new plans in the next few months, says council leader Councillor John Burden.

He says plans would create a new community around the Northfleet embankment area with restaurants, homes and shops.

Prominent office buildings around 15 storeys high could be built, he added.

The riverside area would reportedly be opened up, allowing people to walk between Gravesend's canal basin and Northfleet after cement works on the embankment close.

Gravesham Council says 20 per cent of the houses are planned to be designed to meet the needs of the elderly while 30 per cent would be affordable housing.

The planning application will be made by The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), claims Cllr Burden.

He said: "It will come together as a nice new community.

"There is a lot of exciting possibilities for the area and it's just part of a much bigger investment for the borough."

More follows.