Plans Submitted For Former Odeon

New cultural venue plans

Ashford Borough Council is progressing plans to bring the former Odeon/Mecca Bingo building back into cultural use. The scheme supports the Borough Plan 2024–28 and responds to strong local demand for more arts, cultural and performance space in the town centre.

Following detailed feasibility work, the council has developed a realistic and financially responsible proposal to transform the front of the building. The plans include restoring the Art Deco-style High Street frontage, foyer and first-floor spaces to create a small arts, cultural and community theatre venue.

Architectural studies, business planning and contamination surveys indicate that the front section offers the best immediate opportunity to deliver a viable venue, while retaining future options for the remainder of the site.

Planning application submitted

Ashford’s iconic former Odeon has moved a step closer to a new future as a cultural and community venue, with a planning application now submitted for the latest designs.

Residents, businesses and community groups were invited to view the proposals, meet the project team and share their feedback at a public consultation event in County Square. The consultation took place on Friday 18 September in the Main Square at County Square shopping centre, giving visitors an opportunity to see the latest designs, ask questions and comment on the proposals before the application was submitted.

The project supports the council’s wider ambitions to increase town centre footfall, celebrate Ashford’s heritage and create more reasons for residents and visitors to spend time locally, benefiting nearby businesses and the evening economy.

Opportunity for an arts and cultural operator

Ashford Borough Council is inviting expressions of interest from experienced arts and cultural operators to help shape the future of the former Odeon on Ashford High Street.

Developed with award-winning architects Haworth Tompkins, the project aims to celebrate the building’s heritage while creating a welcoming and sustainable venue for performances, exhibitions, community activities, events, hospitality and creative partnerships.

The council is seeking a long-term partner with the experience, ambition and local understanding to operate the venue, support Ashford’s growing cultural offer and attract new audiences to the town. The successful operator will need to balance commercial sustainability with community engagement and long-term social value.

Prospective operators interested in finding out more, expressing early interest or attending a pre-engagement Teams presentation should contact Julian Russell at Blue Horizon Ventures: julian@bluehorizon-ventures.com.