Ashford’s landmark Odeon revival reaches planning milestone

Ashford’s iconic former Odeon is moving a step closer to a new future as a cultural and community venue, with the latest designs now developed to support a planning application.

Ashford Borough Council is inviting residents, businesses and community groups to see the proposals, speak to the project team and share their views at a public consultation event in County Square later this month.

Since Cabinet endorsed the first-phase concept in March 2026, the project has progressed from initial ideas to a more detailed design stage. 

Feedback from the community and local cultural partners has helped shape the latest plans. Since the first designs were shared, changes include increased capacity for the studio theatre, a more accessible High Street entrance and box office, and an improved backstage area. 

The café/bar, workspace, gallery and meeting rooms have also been planned to make the building more flexible for everyday use including community activities, exhibitions, events and income-generating opportunities. 

The council’s ambition is to bring the front part of the former Odeon and Mecca Bingo building back into active use as a flexible arts, cultural and community venue. The proposals include restoring the building’s distinctive art deco-style High Street frontage, foyer and first-floor spaces, while retaining options for the future of the wider site.

Come and see the plans

The public consultation event will take place on Friday 18 September, from 10am to 4pm, in the Main Square at County Square shopping centre. Visitors will be able to view the latest designs, meet members of the project team, ask questions and give feedback before the planning application is submitted.

The project responds to the community’s strong call for more arts, cultural and performance space in Ashford town centre and supports the council’s wider work to increase footfall, celebrate local heritage and create more reasons for people to visit and spend time in the town.

Subject to approvals and planning consent, the next phase will include the detailed technical design work needed before a contractor and venue operator are appointed.

For more information about the project, visit our dedicated Odeon page on our website.