A full planning application for an ambitious film and TV studio scheme has been submitted - including plans for Ashford’s tallest building.

Quinn Estates wants to turn the derelict Newtown railway works site into a huge new complex featuring four studios, an 120-bedroom hotel and 303 apartments in the former engine sheds.

Bosses submitted a planning application and say work could start as soon as next year if the scheme is approved.

The hotel, which would go over 18 storeys, would become the town’s largest building, featuring a conference centre, restaurant and 62 serviced apartments.

Entertainment giants including Netflix, Amazon and HBO could take on the studios, which bosses say will house single camera feature film or drama productions.

In the application submitted to Ashford Borough Council, planning agent Iceni Projects says the studios will offer a first-class range of facilities over 7,440 sq m of space.

“In the single camera set-up, each of the various shots and camera angles are taken using the same camera, or multiple cameras pointed in one direction, which are moved and reset to get each shot or new angle,” it said.

“Single-camera is mostly reserved for prime-time dramas, made-for-TV movies, music videos and commercial advertisements.

"Examples of this include: The Crown, Downton Abbey, Stranger Things, Mission Impossible or the Avengers.

“In recent times, major streaming services like Netflix have built their business model and entire platforms by developing original content around single camera feature films and drama productions.”

The project took a step forward in July when Quinn Estates, led by chief executive Mark Quinn, signed a deal with regeneration company The Creative District Improvement Co (TCDICo).

If built, TCDICo, which specialises in the development and operation of mixed-use schemes for the creative industries, will operate the site.

Huw Evans, managing director of Quinn Estates, said: “Over the summer we worked closely with TCDICo to finalise our proposals and are delighted to have now formally submitted our planning application to Ashford Borough Council.

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"We are looking forward to working with the local authority and most importantly the local community.”

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