A MULTI-MILLION pound facelift could turn Dartford into one of the shopping capitals of Kent, it has been revealed.

By 2007 the town centre could house upmarket wine bars, cafes and theatres along with a deluxe market square.

Developers St James's Investments Investment, together with council chiefs, want to tear down the poorer end of Lowfield Street and replace it with chic shops and boutiques and a department-style anchor store, Tesco.

The town centre makeover would also include the extension of Central Park, completion of the new two-way ring road and the development of a small road through Central Park linking to the super-store. A pedestrianised town square would be the icing on the cake for the extensive development.

The borough council’s leader, Kenneth Leadbeater, said: "In recent years Dartford town centre appears to have been in the doldrums.

"The Conservative took over Dartford Borough Council in May and only months later I am delighted to bring in an exciting and new plan for the town centre which will regenerate the area for businesses and residents.

"The introduction of a major new retailer will lift the quality of shopping for all concerned. The plan will also bring in up to 550 new dwellings to the town centre which should provide some life after the shops shut.

"A significant programme of pedestrianisation will make the town centre a much safer and friendlier place to visit and I am delighted we are able to integrate Central Park into the town centre."

The cost of the project will be split between the council and the developers.

Rob Scott, director for environment at Dartford council, said a recent government grant would be used for developing the project's master plan.

"About £6.5 million to support projects in the town was recently announced by the deputy prime minister. Some of that will be used for the town centre master plan and the rest will be spent on projects.

"There is the possibility of receiving another £10 million from the government which will go towards the Northern Gateway development and possibly the town centre project.

"The deputy prime minister is keeping this in his back pocket at the moment. The actual development cost will be covered by the developers," he added.