New aerial photos show how work is progressing at the Ashford Designer Outlet.

Contractors are removing the tented structure above the former food court to make way for a new 100,000 sq ft extension.

Fifty new shops are being added to the centre, with the new flagship shop in the extension being the only unit to be two storeys high.

It is expected to open in the autumn next year.

A 735-space car park, next to the Asda supermarket has now opened to the public.

The Newtown Road closure is expected to be lifted by the end of November.

The Newtown Road closure is expected to be lifted by the end of November.

Earlier this month, McDonald's confirmed it will not return to the Designer Outlet when the extension opens next year.

The fast-food giant was scheduled to form part of the site’s £90m expansion in the spring with a new 200-seat standalone site.

But bosses have decided not to return amid suggestions they did not want to pay a higher rent proposed by outlet chiefs.