The conversion to a modern suite of apartments of a controversial building in Ashford - seen as an eyesore by many - is now in full swing.

Construction work to transform the old 1970s Charter House office block into The Panorama is progressing well, according to developers Dukelease.

Charter House in Edinburgh Road has been seen as a blot on the landscape by some in the town, particularly since being abandoned over recent years by the few remaining firms to occupy it.

But with 70% of phase one apartments now sold, Dukelease say the view for the Panorama’s future is looking bright.

Development director David O’Neil added: “The residential market in Ashford has certainly bounced into life, and the excellent level of off-plan sales at The Panorama is a clear indication of this.

“With phase one almost sold out and an ever growing list of people interested in the penthouses, we appear to have caught the market at exactly the right time.”

The Panorama will provide 234 luxurious, open plan town centre homes. Of these, 24 will be penthouse suites, with eight being duplex penthouses.

Phase two penthouse properties are scheduled for sale in early 2014.

All will feature contemporary fixtures and fittings and will have access to a rooftop garden and on-site parking. Retail units will also be present on the ground floor, with additional shops and restaurants within a short walk into Ashford town centre.

To find out more, visit thepanorama-ashford.com or call 01233 620759.

For an insider's view of how work is progressing, see the Kentish Express, out Thursday.