Coachworks opening is pushed back

The official opening of a new leisure complex has been pushed back to next month.

The Coachworks development in Dover Place is now expected to open on the same day as the Christmas-themed light installations in the town.

An official launch was set to take place tomorrow (Friday) but now, the opening of the food, drink and entertainment hub will be held on Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7.

The Event Yard - an outdoor entertainment area used for vintage clothes sales, food markets and acoustic music events - was the first attraction to open back in August.

Freelancers, entrepreneurs and small businesses moved into newly-built office space in The Platform building last month.

But work on The Hothouse - which involves converting the former Ashford Youth Theatre building - has been delayed.

A spokesman for Ashford Borough Council said: “The Hothouse will be open in time to serve a range of food and drink to Ashfordians packing into Dover Place to enjoy the dazzling Illuminites spectacle.

“On Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December, people will be able to enjoy a five minute digital mapping projection on the side of International House, celebrating Ashford’s rich heritage and history.

“The shows will be at 4.30pm, 5.30pm and 6.30pm on both days.

“The car park at Dover Place will be closed for people to watch safely.

“The construction works at Hothouse are nearing completion and the full site will be open imminently.”

After the festive celebrations over the December 6-7 weekend, a carnival of baubles - which have been decorated by children from six primary schools - will make its way down Bank Street and the Lower High Street on Saturday, December 14 from 5.30pm.

A night market selling hot food and drink will be available throughout the evening.

The series of Illuminites events have been organised by Ashford Borough Council and Loveashford.