Developer signed up for £75M Dartford regeneration

Muse has signed an agreement with Dartford Borough Council and Homes England, to take forward the £75M regeneration of Dartford’s Westgate area.

The parties will now move forward on working up detailed plans for a mixed-use development which incorporates a six-screen cinema at the heart of a new social neighbourhood with bars, restaurants and family-friendly hospitality. The scheme will also see the creation of a new public square, a 109-bed hotel, a multi-storey car park and up to 140 new homes.

Cllr Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Borough Council, said: “Dartford is one of the fastest growing towns in England. The town’s strategic position on the edge of London and the heart of the South East has been energised in the last decade by huge investment in national infrastructure, growth funding and massive capital commitments from private developers.

“We are attracting people with the financial means, ambition and aspiration to build new lives beyond urban London and with an already successfully established community, those of us who have longer roots in the town are enjoying the economic benefits too. A welcoming ‘coffee shop’ culture is changing the face of our High Street and summer festivals events and fairs are booming.”

Designed by architect and urban designer tp bennett, the scheme envisages a vibrant public realm with 3,400m² designated for restaurant and bar space. Up to 140 new homes – a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments above the retail uses – will be spread among four new buildings. A range of tenures will be offered for these properties, including affordable units.

Development Director at Muse John Robinson added: “Dartford is a forward-thinking Council that wants to bring real change to the town centre. It has been a pleasure working with them and Homes England over the last six months and we are delighted to have reached this key milestone.

“The site is very well-connected, being close to both the high street and train station, making it the ideal location for a lively and vibrant new community and cultural quarter. We now look forward to working with the wider community in developing our plans and delivering this exciting project.”