New designs for Gravesend’s Heritage Quarter have received a generally positive reaction from residents.

According to designers, 84% of people who saw the plans at last week’s public exhibition were in favour of them.

Over 300 people went to look at the computer generated images at the St George’s Centre with over 100 of those completing a feedback form.

The Heritage Quarter, at the bottom of the town, will be split into three main areas – the Western Quarter, St Andrew’s Gardens and the Eastern Quarter.

The Western Quarter will see new shops built with an extension to St George’s and the promise of five or six major stores.

The extension will be built on what is currently a car park. The 650 parking spaces will be moved underground.

St George’s Church will become a focal point with redesigned gardens and two major buildings with shops, offices, homes and a church hall built fronting West Street.

The existing Blockbuster and Domino’s Pizza will be demolished.

The Eastern Quarter also sees the car parks ditched in favour of a 50-bed four-star hotel and more homes. A piazza will also be created with restaurants, cafes and homes around it.

Finally, St Andrew’s Gardens will be transformed, leaving the area much more open.

Development manager for developers Edinburgh House Richard Hughes said: "Positive reaction to the significant changes in the scheme were particularly encouraging and many people who had concerns for the previous plans gave us their support for our new designs."

The plans will be put to Gravesham council planners in October with the Eastern Quarter being the main part.

Further details can be seen online at www.g-h-q.co.uk