Business bosses say Ashford has the potential to become a “magnet for investment” after the Kentonline revealed Netflix is set to make new film and TV studios its UK base.

Mark Quinn of Quinn Estates is hoping to transform derelict engine sheds on the former railway works in Newtown Road into seven state-of-the-art studios.

The prolific developer says he is in discussions with a number of international content providers and is unable to confirm or deny which firm is moving in.

See how the new development could look

But it is believed subscription service Netflix - which is looking for additional studio space across Europe - has its sights set on the 12-acre plot.

Business chiefs in the town have welcomed the news.

Sam Snart, managing director of Hobbs Parker Property Consultants, said: “Ashford epitomises how towns evolve over time and how new technologies can drive forward an economy.

“The town’s growth, which was initially based on agriculture,was transformed by the railways.

“Thanks to Hitachi’s presence and the international rail connections the railway is still an important part of the economy.

“But Ashford’s future might quite literally be a twin-track one with it moving into the digital age alongside its strong agricultural community.

“By attracting new jobs into the town, Ashford has the potential to be a magnet for other investment.”

Online giant Netflix has millions of subscribers worldwide, with viewers able to stream films and programmes to devices including TVs and mobile phones.

As well as making Hollywood hits available for subscribers to stream, Netflix also makes its own productions - something which could happen in Ashford if the bold project goes ahead.

A 180-bedroom five-star hotel, workshops, restaurants and cafes are planned for the development alongside the studios, as well as 400 parking spaces.

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