A party business has become the first to leave a row of six shops set for demolition in Ashford after plans for a new 92-bed hotel were approved.

Decor studio Khises-Posh Creatives (KPC Events) moved into the unit in New Rents in February but has now closed its doors with the owner opting to run the business from home and from a storage unit in Bethersden.

Betfred, PDSA, British Heart Foundation and the former Argos and Game stores will also be flattened to make way for the project, which will go across four storeys.

KPC's owner Kirah Okewole, who has been working in the industry for nine years, says moving was an obvious next step after hearing about the hotel plans.

"I also have a workshop in the storage in Bethersden so it's cheaper for me as a start up," she added.

"Due to the hotel, I couldn't actually expand the scope of my business because I was looking to open upstairs, but it didn't make sense for me to invest so much into converting that space when I'm not going to be staying there long.

"It's a blessing in disguise because since I've moved I have done so much more working on my career goals.

"The business is still open on the side and my career is developing too.

"I'm not looking to open a new shop now because I have the workshop that I'm already renting."

The business offers studio space for photo shoots and parties but can also cater for external events and weddings in venues across Kent, Essex and London.

Meanwhile, the British Heart Foundation, which has been in Ashford for more than 30 years, has announced it will be leaving the town for good when it closes to make way for the development.

Its last day will be Thursday, October 6, with work on the hotel expected to begin in the autumn.

It is not yet clear what PDSA and Betfred plan to do, but Game has already moved inside Sports Direct and HomePlus Furniture – which replaced Argos – has taken the ex-M&S unit.

The bold hotel plans were approved by Ashford Borough Council last month, including a bar, restaurant and spa.

Designed by architect Guy Hollaway – who drew up the scheme on behalf of applicant SPPF Ltd – the project will also include 10 flats on the top floor.

The operator of the site is not yet known, but it will offer three to four-star accommodation.