AbC’s final aCt

Cllr Graham Galpin, Ashford Borough Council’s portfolio holder for the town centre, defended the decision to ask AYT to vacate the premises, as the site is part of the Commercial Quarter redeveleopment scheme.

He said: “As previously stated, it is vital to Ashford’s continuing success that the town maintains its status as the best business location in Kent, so we have to maximise the potential of the Commercial Quarter to make it a business hub for the south east.

“We fully acknowledge that means difficult decisions will have to be taken along the way, as in this case.

“However, we have to think long term and decide what is best for the area, the future of our borough and its residents. Just recently Quinn Estates have received planning permission for the first office building – a 80,000 sq ft office on the site – and work is due to start on this soon, which heralds an exciting new era for the area.

“The council has allowed the youth theatre to remain in the property despite the notice to leave having expired, due to the difficulties they are experiencing in finding alternative accommodation.

“We have also provided assistance by looking for alternative options ourselves as well as putting them in contact with local land

agents.”