London Paramount could have a "devastating effect" on the Swanscombe community, and result in the loss of 5,000 jobs in the area, according to a new group.

The Peninsula Management Group (PMG) represents the interests of some of the 100 businesses based at Manor Way Business Park, Northfleet Industrial Estate, and Kent Kraft Estate.

Concerns raised by companies working out of these industrial estates include potentially having to vacate their business premises at short notice - subject to planning permission for the entertainment resort earmarked for the Swanscombe Peninsula being granted by the secretary of state next summer.

Many have not yet been contacted by Paramount bosses about relocation and compensation deals.

PMG public affairs consultant Dan Bramwell said: "At the moment we do not appear to be seeing the timely, caring treatment, or any realistic, let alone the generous compensation offers being made that we were led to expect.

"It is inconsiderate that the affected businesses continue to fear for their futures and that of their employees."

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The opening date for the £3.2bn entertainment resort, set to feature a theme park, water park, business centre and hotels, has recently been pushed back to 2021 from Easter 2020 by the company behind the scheme, London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH).

Mr Bramwell said the nine-month delay has heightened concerns.

He added: "At the moment, they do not know if they are staying or going.

"They have no time scale."

Mr Bramwell said it is "unlikely" that there are enough industrial sites available locally to accommodate all the businesses, unless local authorities start to make urgent allocations.

He told News Shopper: "If it destroys all these jobs before it even starts then the theme park will simply not be creating anywhere near the number of employment opportunities it has so far claimed to be."

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Paramount bosses expect to bring 27,000 jobs to Kent and the wider area

A PPS Group spokesman said: "Our agents are searching for premises within Gravesham, Dartford and towards Medway and Maidstone.

"We are doing everything we can to ensure this process runs as smoothly as possible.

"Whilst we appreciate that some people are concerned about possible job losses, London Paramount will be a long-term provider of up to 27,000 jobs."

Interested parties who have not heard from Paramount bosses can email consultation@londonparamount.info