Cement giant Lafarge Tarmac has paved the way for a £2 billion entertainment resort in north Kent after signing an agreement to make London Paramount become a reality.

The company has agreed a deal with London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH) to sell land needed for the creation of the resort.

The land, known as Swanscombe Peninsula, covers 388 acres and was previously the UK's biggest cement plant before it closed in 1993.

Cyrille Ragoucy, chief executive officer at Lafarge Tarmac, said: "We take a long-term view of our landholdings from mineral extraction to development and restoration; creating jobs, supporting communities and continuing responsible environmental stewardship.

"We are proud to be part of this exciting project. This is a fitting legacy for land which has been owned by Lafarge Tarmac for over 140 years."

David Testa, executive director of LRCH said: "With this agreement in place, the vision for North Kent as the home of a nationally significant, multi-billion pound entertainment resort employing thousands of people is moving closer to becoming a reality.

"It further underlies our commitment to delivering the project and is welcome news as we continue to consult and engage with the local Dartford and Gravesham communities living near the site and more widely with our interested parties."

Two stages of public consultation have taken place with a further two expected before a planning application is submitted later this year.

Developers say they are encouraged with feedback from events so far after releasing results from 12 consultations.

They remain in talks with other landowners, including Land Securities, about building the project.