AMBITIOUS plans to radically re-develop land in north Dartford have been unveiled.

The Dartford Park Submission, made on behalf of Dartford Council and Prologis Developments, intends to regenerate the former Joyce Green Hospital and Littlebrook Lakes.

The news follows years of speculation surrounding the future of the land, much of which is out-of-bounds to the public and contaminated. The site's masterplan includes plans for 1,500 new homes, hi-tech business parks with the potential to create 7,500 new jobs, a new primary school, a hotel, sports and recreation facilities and conservation areas.

Plans to build scores of new homes have caused anxiety on nearby Temple Hill. But Dartford Council and Prologis have assured residents they will be consulted and plan to hold exhibitions and a public meeting on the estate.

Cllr Andy Sawford, a Temple Hill councillor and cabinet member, said the development was "very exciting" and would make better use of the land.

The plans are intended to be environmentally-friendly and reduce car use. Training and education facilities are set to be boosted by a new science park and links to universities and research units.

Exhibitions of the Dartford Park Submission will be held in the Temple Hill Community Centre on March 25 and 26. A public meeting will also be held in the centre at 7.30pm on March 26.