Bold studio project to be scrutinised

Eye-catching plans for a huge redevelopment of the former Ashford railway works will go under the microscope at a public consultation next week.

Quinn Estates wants to turn the derelict engine sheds in Newtown into three or four film and TV studios.

Entertainment giants including Netflix, Amazon and HBO could fill the studios, which will sit alongside 300 apartments, a 180-bed hotel and workshops.

Bosses hope to submit a planning application next month and are offering residents the chance to scrutinise the scheme next Wednesday.

The project took a step forward in July when Quinn Estates, led by chief executive Mark Quinn, signed a deal with established regeneration company The Creative District Improvement Co (TCDICo).

If built, TCDICo, which specialises in the development and operation of mixed-use schemes for the creative industries, will operate the site.

When the Kentish Express revealed the studio plan in March, seven studios were planned, but bosses now say three or four are set to be proposed.

Chiefs say the Newtown site will become home to a “full eco-system of film-related creative businesses” - featuring post production, special effects and kit hire.

Constructed in 1847, the railway works site was created to serve the London Dover Railway.

It grew over the next 100 years as it took on more work from Battersea and, although damaged in the Second World War, it remained a locomotive works until 1962 when the work was transferred to Eastleigh.

Many of the buildings were demolished over the next 20 years and what remains is the shell of the original workshops.

The site includes five Grade II-listed buildings.

Developers say they plan to bring the site’s former gate house and clock tower “back to life” as part of the scheme.

In a leaflet advertising the consultation, Quinn Estates says: “We have organised the consultation to give residents and stakeholders an opportunity to see emerging details of our proposal and to speak to members of the project team.

“The aim is to understand the views and ideas of the community so the development proposals can evolve to reflect feedback received.”

The consultation will be held at The Railway Club in Beaver Road on Wednesday, September 4 from 4pm to 7pm. For more information, call 01227 831212 or visit www.quinn-estates.com

■ What do you think? Email kentishexpress@thekmgroup. co.uk

How the development could look from above