The wait is finally over! A dilapidated eyesore that has haunted Ashford town centre for more than two decades is about to meet the wrecking ball, signalling the dramatic start of a major town regeneration push.
The notorious Swanton House, a forgotten shell next to Ashford College on Elwick Road is set to be replaced by 34 stunning, high-quality rental apartments. Forget the commute: these new homes are just a short walk from Ashford International Station, putting central London a lightning-fast 38 minutes away. This isn’t just a demolition; it’s a defiant step forward in Ashford Borough Council’s mission to prioritize ‘brownfield first’ development.
The journey to this moment wasn’t easy. After being snapped up in 2019 by A Better Choice for Property Development Ltd (the Council’s own independent private rental arm), the project faced hurdles. Planners pushed back, demanding a design that honoured the surrounding conservation area. The result? A spectacular redesign featuring pitched roofs and striking metal-clad gables that perfectly echo the area’s elegant 19th-century architecture.
These won’t be just any flats. The mix, including six three-bedroom, 24 two-bedroom, and four one-bedroom units will boast private balconies and an exceptional specification. The future is here, too: 25 of the 27 parking spots will feature EV charging points!
Developers say the final design “blends positive features… to create a positive architectural design that both reflect the ever-changing streetscape of Elwick Road as well as appreciating the local conservation architecture.”
The biggest roadblock—the complex Stodmarsh environmental issue has finally been cleared! The Council’s innovative ‘nutrient neutrality’ scheme, which cleverly reduces water usage in existing homes to offset new builds, has paved the way for construction to begin. In effect, Ashford’s current homes are powering the future of the town!
After years of planning, preparation, and perseverance, the project is officially on the verge of launch and hoardings are due to go up this month around the Elwick Road site, with demolition scheduled to start imminently.
A new chapter is beginning for Ashford—and the silence of Swanton House is about to be replaced with the sounds of progress!