A youth centre in New Ash Green has been reopened following a £140,000 refurbishment.

Kent County Council Chairman, David Brazier, opened the youth and community centre that had remained unchanged since its opening in in 1979.

Councillor Brazier said: "I was delighted to have had the opportunity to officially open the refurbished youth centre, which I know will continue to bring great benefits to the local community for many years to come."

The centre has a main hall and meeting rooms that are used by community groups that needed upgrades to be made safe.

The project involved the installation of a new heating system and double glazing, improvements to the outside paths and play area, repairs to the roof, and new toilets.

The Centre, which is open seven days a week, is currently used by more than 400 people, including the a pre-school, New Ash Green Scouts Group, and the parish council.

John Kelly, trustee funding co-ordinator, said: "I am incredibly pleased with the results of the project, which has made a huge improvement to New Ash Green Youth and Community Centre.

"Since the project was completed, we've already seen an increase in bookings, as community groups are keen to make use of the valuable new space, which has been an important part of the community for so long."