Ashmere is a large housing development located in Ebbsfleet Garden City, Dartford, Kent. Designed to create a vibrant, well-connected community, the development is part of the wider vision for Ebbsfleet Garden City, which aims to be a sustainable urban extension for the Thames Gateway. The development is expected to deliver 2,600 homes, including a mix of private and affordable housing, as well as a range of community amenities.
Ashmere is part of the Eastern Quarry area of Ebbsfleet Garden City, a development that was initiated by the UK Government in 2015 under the Ebbsfleet Development Corporation. The site, which was formerly a quarry, is being transformed into a mixed-use residential and community space. Ashmere is one of the key residential areas in the masterplan, which is scheduled for completion in 2033.
Development and Design
The masterplan for Ashmere was designed by PRP, who were appointed as the lead architects and masterplanners. The design is influenced by Kent’s industrial heritage, with particular reference to the traditional Oast Houses and Maltings buildings of the hop-growing and brewing industry. The development also takes inspiration from the region's local villages, urban centres like Gravesend, and the striking chalk cliffs that surround the former quarry. The design includes several phases, with the first three phases already reserved and completed.
Key features of the development include:
2,600 Homes: A mix of affordable and private homes, with 25% of the units designated as affordable housing. The homes are designed to be energy-efficient and sustainable.
Primary School: A new primary school to serve the growing population of the area, alongside other community amenities.
Village Centre: A central hub with various amenities, including shops, cafes, and recreational spaces, aimed at fostering community interaction and providing essential services.
Green Spaces and Connectivity: Ashmere prioritises pedestrian and cyclist access with dedicated routes, and the development includes a range of green spaces, parks, and nature reserves, ensuring residents have access to outdoor areas for recreation.
Sustainable Transport: The design encourages the use of sustainable transport options, including walking, cycling, and public transport.
Awards
Ashmere was shortlisted for the Completed Award at the Housing Design Awards 2025, recognizing the high-quality design and innovative approach to urban planning and housing.
Sustainability and Environmental Integration
A key aspect of Ashmere's design is the integration of the area's industrial history into a modern, sustainable community. The development incorporates elements of the former quarry, such as the gorges, bridges, and tunnels, into the landscape, creating a unique environment for residents. Green spaces, pedestrian routes, and sustainable transport options are all central to the development's ethos, ensuring that it remains an eco-friendly and walkable neighbourhood.
Community and Amenities
The development is designed to create a well-rounded community, with a variety of amenities to serve the needs of its residents:
Schools and Education: The primary school and other educational facilities will help meet the needs of families in the area.
Retail and Services: The village centre will offer a range of shops, cafes, and other services, providing a local hub for socialising and convenience.
Sports and Recreation: Outdoor spaces, including parks and sports areas, will be integrated into the development to support an active lifestyle.
Health and Wellbeing: The development aims to include healthcare facilities, creating a comprehensive community environment.
Completion and Future Phases
Ashmere is scheduled for completion in 2033. The masterplan will evolve in phases, with each phase contributing new homes, public spaces, and community amenities. The ongoing development aims to establish a community-focused environment that reflects the values of sustainability, accessibility, and high-quality urban living.
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