Ashford Designer Outlet plans to build six kiosks

According to large-scale planning applications submitted, Ashford Designer Outlet plans to build six new store kiosks. The plans include widening sections of the walkway around the original part of the centre and the construction of kiosks.

The centre says the aim of the units is "to replace temporary structures that have been in place during the part-closure of the centre during construction works".

In a statement given with the application, Ashford Designer Outlet bosses outlined their plans for the site, which saw its £90m extension open last year.

They said: "With the extension now complete, McArthurGlen’s aim is to ensure the quality of phase one is maintained through the rationalisation of the existing offer, and creation of more formal retail kiosks. This plan seeks permission to develop six kiosks within the mall walkway."

“The kiosks will provide an opportunity for smaller brands and ‘pop-up stores’ to ‘test the market’ and take a smaller space within the centre before potentially expanding to a permanent site."

"The existing low level wall separating the walkway and car park is to be cut back and removed to accommodate a new platform surrounded by a new retaining wall. The current kiosk design provides frameless glazing to all external sides, with glazed doors and a sign above."

Overall, the six additional units would increase the on site retail space by 383 sq m.

Along with the kiosk plan, a large part of Polo Ralph Lauren’s second floor will be used as storage with the loss of some retail floorspace if the planning application is approved.