Multi-million pound plans for a new dance studio to boost Ashford's cultural offering have moved a step closer.

The Jasmin Vardimon Company scheme, which is part of the borough council’s Big 8 large-scale development projects, will be built on land on the Henwood Industrial Estate if a new planning application is approved.

The world-renowned contemporary dance company is currently based at the Stour Centre, but bosses hope the Henwood development will allow it to expand.

A planning application submitted by Kent County Council (KCC) - which is behind the scheme - has been lodged with ABC.

If built, the Jasmin Vardimon Company will go in a two-storey 'Creative Laboratory' building opposite the Ashford highways services depot site, with 29 other light industrial units also proposed for the plot off Javelin Way.

The units will be divided into five blocks, each with parking at the front.

The 'Creative Laboratory' building will have space for new dance productions, administrative office space for the dance company and a café which is set to open to the public.

The greenfield site - currently unused - borders the Norton Knatchbull School’s playing field next to the M20, which is itself at the centre of plans for a new £6m sports centre.

The grammar school is hoping to attract Premier League football club academies with the proposal.

Funding for the new Jasmin Vardimon facility will be shared with the dance company and KCC after the company secured funding from Arts Council England.

Last year, KCC Cllr Mike Hill said: “This is an opportunity to establish a high quality cultural offering in Ashford.

“This has long been the ambition of this county council and Ashford Borough Council.

“Ashford has been sadly lacking in its cultural offer.

“Jasmin Vardimon is an international dance company, with a growing reputation."

Ecology experts say there is a "relatively high density" of protected slow worms on the land, as well as a small population of common lizard.

Comments regarding the proposal are being accepted until Saturday, January 12, with a final decision expected in March.

• To view the plans - which feature a new access road - visit www.ashford.gov.uk and search for the 18/01601/AS application