More than eight out of 10 people want to see more food, drink and retail outlets in Ashford town centre.

Cafes and restaurants were top of the list to improve the town’s leisure offer, according to a survey.

It also revealed that 61% of people who spend time in the town centre live within five miles or work locally.

Almost half of those questioned last month said they visited at least once a week.

The survey was carried out by property development firm Dukelease, which is refurbishing the Panorama apartment block, formerly known as Charter House office building.

Once completed next year, it will house 234 residential apartments and penthouses plus ground floor retail space.

The company argues this will play an important role in Ashford, which is the third fastest growing town in the South East – with 13,000 new homes, 10,000 new jobs and two million sq ft of office space planned.

Dukelease development director David O’Neil said: “Ashford is growing quickly and it’s no surprise that those living and working in the area are hungry for more shops and restaurants.

“The survey shows people like to shop and eat out locally – convenience is a huge factor.

“There are great opportunities for the right brands and services to take advantage of the growth being delivered in and around Ashford.”