Former Odeon’s next act takes centre stage as plans progress

Developed plans for a new arts, cultural and community venue in the heart of Ashford Town Centre will go before Cabinet, following significant progress during 2026.

Ashford’s landmark former Odeon in the lower high street could move into the next stage of its transformation after the initial concept has been turned into a developed, costed and deliverable scheme. A planning application for the external works (PA/2026/1718), and a further application for change of use of the front section of the building (PA/2026/1719) have now also been submitted. 

Cabinet will be asked on 8 October to support the next phase of the project, including detailed design, contractor procurement and the appointment of a long-term venue operator. This is then subject to formal ratification by Full Council on 15 October.
Since Cabinet endorsed the first-phase concept in March 2026, the council and its specialist partners have:

•    removed most of the known asbestos and contamination, reducing risk and providing a much clearer picture of the building’s condition;
•    developed the design, cost plan, programme, business case and arrangements for operating and maintaining the venue;
•    improved the proposed High Street entrance, accessibility, fire escapes, backstage facilities and the ability to use different spaces at the same time;
•    tested the market for a future operator, with early engagement confirming credible interest from local, regional and national organisations; and
•    continued engagement with cultural groups and the wider community, with strong support shown at September’s public exhibition.

The refined plans retain the building’s distinctive Art Deco High Street frontage and create a venue designed for performances, exhibitions, community activity, events and everyday use.
When complete, the venue is planned to include:

•    a flexible studio theatre for around 152 to 262 people, depending on the layout;
•    a gallery and community workshop or meeting space;
•    a welcoming foyer with a café, bar and workspace;
•    a restored first-floor ballroom for community events and activities;
•    improved level access, an accessible lift and modern visitor facilities; and
•    flexible spaces that can support arts, culture, wellbeing, education, local groups and commercial hires.

Cllr Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “This year has seen the former Odeon project move from an exciting idea to a detailed and deliverable plan. We now have a stronger design, a clearer business case and genuine interest from potential operators. 

“Subject to Cabinet and Council approval, this is a major opportunity to restore one of Ashford’s best-known buildings and create a cultural venue the town can be proud of.”

Investment and next steps

The developed scheme now represents an estimated total capital investment of £8.363 million. Cabinet is being asked to recommend that Council approves a further £6.8m, in addition to funding already agreed for enabling works and design development.

The overall budget has increased slightly from the initial £7.5m as the design has been refined and more has been learned about the building. The changes include increased theatre capacity, improved fire escape arrangements so spaces can be used at the same time, a more accessible and visible entrance and box office, and allowances for unforeseen costs associated with bringing a long-vacant historic building back into use.

Despite the increase in the project budget, the council believes the project remains an exciting and important investment in Ashford. It would bring a prominent heritage building back into use, create a new cultural and community destination, attract more visitors to the lower High Street and support local shops, hospitality and other town centre businesses.

Cllr Simon Betty, Cabinet Member for Commercial Property and Investment, said: “A successful town centre needs a strong mix of businesses, culture and community activity. Reviving the former Odeon would bring new life to the lower High Street, increase footfall and give residents and visitors more reasons to spend time in Ashford. The revised investment reflects a better, more practical venue designed for long-term success.”

Subject to Cabinet and Council approval, planning consent and the remaining procurement and governance approvals, the next steps are expected to be:

•    detailed technical design and contractor procurement through late 2026 and early 2027;
•    appointment of a preferred operator in early 2027;
•    the start of main construction in spring 2027; and
•    completion, handover and opening in summer 2028.

For more information about the project, visit www.ashford.gov.uk/odeon