The two companies key to delivering 3,500 jobs at Chatham Docks have said they remain committed to the project, despite it receiving a setback.

Councillors rejected the first phase of the £650 million development at the site in Pier Road, Gillingham, earlier this month. It could create up to 3,500 jobs.

Developer Peel Land and Property wants to turn 26 acres into a complex containing student apartments, homes, office space, shops, university facilities and a conference centre.

The first part included an Asda, petrol station, car park, pub/restaurant and a park.

Peel has warned refusal placed the entire project in jeopardy. Development director James Whittaker claimed last week that Asda and Marston’s, who will deliver key parts of the scheme, were now considering pulling out.

But John McElholm, acquisitions manager at Marston’s, told the Medway Messenger the company was “100% committed to the scheme and we intend to pursue our position there in cooperation with the owners”.

Marston’s have signed up to run the pub/restaurant.

An Asda spokesman said: “Everybody was disappointed that it was rejected, we were surprised. Despite this, we remain committed and confident we’ll continue.”

Peel will appeal against the decision, a lengthy process which could take up to nine months and prove costly for the council.

If the authority loses it might have to foot the bill, which Mr Whittaker claimed could total more than half a million pounds.

Peel had hoped to begin work in September and finish the first phase in early 2015.

Councillors have accepted building on the site in principle, granting outline planning permission last year.

At that stage they agreed what type of facilities should be in the site’s four zones and the maximum height of buildings.