Why Ashford?

In March 2001, the Regional Planning Guidance for the South East identified Ashford as one of four key growth areas in the South East, alongside the Thames Gateway, Milton Keynes and Stansted/M11 Corridor.

Since then, substantial Government and private sector funding has been secured and invested in Ashford to ensure that the borough has the right infrastructure and sustainable communities to support a growing population.

The Ashford's Future Company was set up in 2003 in partnership with the local council, government agencies and public and private sector representatives, to help drive and co-ordinate specific development and infrastructure projects in the borough.

The company was wound up in 2011 and a new partnership between Ashford Borough Council and Kent County Council was set up, corresponding with the new coalition Government’s focus on localism.

Working closely with the Homes and Communities Agency and SEEDA, the partnership will continue the borough’s development, and oversee the completion of projects already in progress. Efforts will also be geared towards supporting the private sector as they play an even more important role in delivering growth in the future.

A great deal has been achieved a in a short period of time, including securing significant funding for the town and delivering projects including Victoria Way, Junction 9 of the M20, the award winning shared space scheme, and social and community infrastructure such as the Gateway Library Plus and Art at St. Marys.

Partners will continue to help the town realise its fantastic potential for becoming the powerhouse of Kent.