Developers behind a proposed Sainsbury’s supermarket on the outskirts of Herne Bay could inject more than £500,000 into the town centre over the next three years, the Gazette understands.

The money would only be spent if Terrace Hill get the go-ahead to build their huge store in Altira Park, which will also include a petrol station, car park and other commercial units.

An announcement on a major investment programme is expected next week.

The money will be invested as part of a Section 106 agreement – a condition of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 which makes developers contribute to local infrastructure in exchange for approval of their planning applications.

Sources close to Terrace Hill have told the Gazette that the company have employed an independent town centre specialist to look at ways of improving the area, including enhancing public grounds and making Herne Bay a more attractive shopping destination.

The investment will also include provision for Christmas lights in the town, which the council announced last week it was withdrawing funding for from 2014.

The developers will work with the Town Partners and Canterbury City Council to decide how best to spend the cash.

What do you think the money should be spent on? Email hernebaygazette@thekmgroup.co.uk or write to Gazette House, 5-8 Estuary View Business Park, Boorman Way, Whitstable. Kent. CT5 3SE.