A cinema and more than 100 new homes are being proposed in part of a £75 million regeneration scheme in Dartford.

Muse Developments have been appointed to develop the Westgate area in the town centre, including old Co-Op site.

Plans announced this morning feature a six screen cinema, restaurants and bars, a hotel and 140 homes in a new town square.

Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Council, said: “Muse has an amazing track record of creating spaces that are not only commercially successful but also hugely popular with people.

"The council has an ambition to create modern spaces and facilities which enjoy a direct lineage back to our town’s strong sense of family and community.

From July: Dartford is set for huge changes including a town square and a cinema as council cabinet approve borough's corporate plan​

“Muse also has a record of delivering creative schemes on time and of the highest quality. They instinctively understood the need to provide spaces with people in mind and their approach and background is refreshing.

“We drew ‘some lines in the sand’ such as the retention of the art-deco façade of the former Co-Op store and the need for practical spaces and facilities for families.

"Cinema operators made a strong commercial case and urged us to find space for them as did mid-market quality hotel chains."

The council said it is working with the CCG to develop a new health facility in the town centre, meaning additional GPs and social care providers.

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The old Co-Op site in Spital Street 

Parts of the old Co-Op store will be retained but other buildings that used to occupy the site will be demolished to make way for the new neighbourhood.

John Robinson from Muse Developments, said: “It is an honour to have been chosen by Dartford Borough Council to lead on a project which will have such a positive impact on the town.

"The site is very well-connected, being close to both the high street and train station, making it the ideal location for a lively and vibrant new community and cultural quarter.

“Dartford is a forward-thinking council that wants to bring real change to the town centre. We look forward to working with them.”

The plans include 140 one, two and three bed apartments, 39 of which will be affordable, along with a multi-story car park with 167 spaces.

Dartford MP Gareth Johnson welcomed the scheme.

He said: "This is an exciting and visionary scheme.  

"Our town centre needs a forward thinking approach and this development is a significant part of that.”

 

Dartford Labour leader Jonathon Hawkes said the plans were encouraging for the town. 

He said: "It is welcome news. This is the first positive step for the town centre for over a decade. 

"We look forward to working with the council on this and it is good to see some much needed infrastructure for Dartford. 

"As always we need to ensure affordable housing is delivered but on the face of it, this is very welcome." 

Muse Developments is looking to submit a planning application in summer 2018 and to start on site by spring 2019.

Before then, Dartford Council and Muse Developments will be holding consultations.