Retail guru Mary Portas will offer Ashford support and advice

by James Scott

Ashford is to receive a share of £1.5million to give its high street a much-needed boost.

It was announced as one of 15 successful towns to be chosen in the second round of Portas Pilot bids this morning.

As well as up to £100,000 in funding, the town will receive invaluable support and advice from retail guru Mary Portas.

The bid was highlighted for its innovative proposals and the way it embraced new technology, as well as providing a good case study for other towns to follow.

Ashford’s plans include revitalising its market and making it a destination point for shoppers, developing a virtual high street and smartphone app to guide shoppers through the town and creating stronger links between the town centre and the popular Ashford Designer Outlet.

Council leader Cllr Peter Wood said: "This is excellent news, and we are delighted and proud that Ashford has been selected as a Portas Pilot town.

"Our town is bursting with potential, and our hard-working businesses and residents deserve the support – and the national recognition – that this scheme will bring."

The two other Kent towns to receive backing are Margate and Dartford who were announced in the first round of Portas Pilot bids in May.