A LANDMARK multi-million pound deal has been signed and sealed, which will double the size of Central Park in Dartford.

The 23 acres, secured by Dartford council from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), will pave the way for a restoration of the park to its Edwardian splendour.

Welcoming the historic purchase, Dartford council leader Kenneth Leadbeater said: “We will now be able to unveil our plans to restore the park to its original splendour with bigger and better facilities.”

The deal, which increases the park’s size from 27 to 50 acres is part of a £110 million investment that will see the transformation of Dartford town centre.

Cllr Leadbeater said: “The purchase of more than 20 acres of open space with new sports facilities and areas for recreation perfectly complements our plans for the town.

“The council has been in discussion with Glaxo for nine months, during which there has been a great deal of comment and speculation over our plans.

“Now residents can see the whole picture and appreciate how important Central Park is – and always has been – to our proposals.”

The completion of the purchase in June will see Dartford council take responsibility for Acacia Hall, its squash courts and football pitches.