The launch of a new restaurant in a multi-million cinema and leisure complex has been pushed back until the New Year.

Macknade's restaurant, bar and delicatessen was due to open Elwick Place, Ashford before Christmas, but it has been delayed until next year.

Work is underway to transform one of the largest units in the £75 million pound entertainment hub into a restaurant and retail space.

Macknade bosses say they have a "long term" vision to trade in the town after securing a 10-year-old lease for the 5,123 sq ft unit - which is just a stone's throw away from the six-screen Picturehouse cinema.

It is not the first time that the project has been delayed, as bosses had originally planned for it to open in October.

Managing director Stefano Cuomo, who also runs a Macknade food hall in Faversham, said: "I shot a little high with our December opening date and we are now aiming to open in the new year.

"We are looking forward to being part of this burgeoning food and drink scene that is taking a grip of Ashford.

"The building works are cracking on but I now accept that we won’t be opening our doors until 2020.

"Of course, I am sorry to all of you who were hoping to join us for your Christmas and New Years celebrations in Ashford, but we would love to welcome you in Faversham instead.

"This does mean that we will have more time to plan for opening and train our team, so we will really hit the ground running."

"If ever you are passing the site beforehand, then do knock on the door and ask to take a peek."

In September, hundreds of people enjoyed live music and food and drink outside Elwick Place to get a taste of what is to come.

Burgers and steaks prepared by Macknade butchers, homemade cakes and deli platters and cocktails are all set to feature on the new menu.

Vegetarian and vegan options will also be available.

A bar stocking beer, cider, wine, spirits and soft drinks and a delicatessen featuring local, British and continental cheese is set to be installed.

Entertainment including live music, events and classes is also planned for the new site, which is set to open seven days a week.

This Saturday marks the first of eight units to open in Elwick Place, just under a year after the complex opened.

The Ashford International Model Railway Excellence Centre, also known as AIMREC, will be open from 10am to 4pm.

Next Saturday (December 14), Afro-Caribbean restaurant Dansaki will host a pre-launch from 12pm to 7pm in the Elwick Place courtyard.

US firm Snap Fitness is also set to open a 24-hour gym next month.

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