An artist's impression showing what a proposed new town centre cinema in Ashford could look like has been unveiled.

The image shows a modern, glass-fronted building, which would house a multi-screen cinema and several restaurants.

It has been released by UK developer Stanhope PLC, who are planning to invest £75 million in re-developing the vacant wasteland in Elwick Road, opposite Debenhams.

As well as the cinema and food outlets, the proposal includes plans to build a hotel, a mix of homes, comprising of private apartments, rental properties and retirement homes, and a public area with landscaping.

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, leader of Ashford Borough Council (ABC), said: “This is excellent news on a priority development site in Ashford and we are delighted to see these exciting proposals for the town centre come forward.

“The council has been working hard with potential investors to get to this position and to achieve a high quality investment in the town centre."

Cllr Clarkson added: “A town centre cinema with places to eat and drink around a new square will be a real draw and will help to bring extra vitality to the town centre during the day and evening."

Plans to build a town centre multiplex were first revealed by the Kentish Express in 2013.

Earlier proposals suggested that the cinema would have five screens, while the hotel would have 60 rooms.

However, it is not yet known which cinema chain will be moving to the development.

Now, residents will have the opportunity to have their say on the project, as Stanhope will be displaying its initial proposals at a public exhibition next week.

It will be held in Unit 16A, in the County Square shopping centre, off the High Street, on Thursday, July 30 between 10am-3pm and Friday, July 31 between 3pm-8pm.

Gary Bourne, director at Stanhope, said: “The upcoming public exhibition represents the culmination of many months of hard work with the team at Ashford Borough Council, who have been pivotal in helping bring forward this important site.

“We’re eager to present our plans to the public and think people will be very excited when they see our vision.”