Ebbsfleet Central is a major mixed-use development project located around Ebbsfleet International Railway Station in Dartford, Kent. As part of the wider Ebbsfleet Garden City initiative, Ebbsfleet Central is designed to become a vibrant commercial and residential hub that will cater to the needs of local workers, residents, and visitors. With a planned total area of up to 485,000 square meters, it will include a range of residential, office, and retail spaces, as well as cultural and community amenities. The development aims to foster an inclusive, healthy, and sustainable community.
Ebbsfleet Central will be a dynamic new centre for the Ebbsfleet area, providing a variety of mixed-use spaces. The first phase, Ebbsfleet Central East, will comprise approximately 2,100 homes, 100,000 square meters of office space, and up to 10,000 square meters of retail space, including supermarkets, bars, restaurants, and cafés. It is envisioned as a hub for business, culture, and wellbeing, located just 17 minutes from central London.
History and Planning
The outline planning application for Ebbsfleet Central East was submitted by Ebbsfleet Development Corporation in 2022 and approved as the first phase of a major regeneration project. The development will transform the area around Ebbsfleet International Railway Station into a thriving, integrated urban environment. The application includes a flexible framework for future planning applications, covering design, land use, building heights, and connectivity to adapt to evolving needs.
Key Features
Ebbsfleet Central will feature several key components:
Residential Spaces: The development will provide a mix of approximately 2,100 new homes, offering a variety of living options, from apartments to city living units. The goal is to create a sustainable community with a balance of affordable and private housing.
Commercial Spaces: Up to 100,000 square meters of office space will be included, positioning Ebbsfleet Central as a key business destination. The development will offer opportunities for local businesses and attract investment, fostering economic growth in the region.
Retail and Leisure: The development will also include up to 10,000 square meters of retail space, with plans for supermarkets, cafés, bars, restaurants, and other shops to serve the community.
Health and Wellbeing Hub: As part of the development, a dedicated Health and Wellbeing Hub will be established, including both primary and secondary healthcare services. This hub will serve the needs of the growing population and provide opportunities for community wellbeing programs.
Cultural and Community Amenities: Ebbsfleet Central will feature public spaces designed for social interaction and community activities, including plazas, cultural venues, and recreational areas.
Sustainable Infrastructure: The development will integrate green infrastructure, with a network of footpaths, cycle routes, and amenity spaces. The public realm will emphasize sustainability and healthy living, with areas dedicated to nature and habitat enhancement.
Landscape and Transport Strategy
The design of Ebbsfleet Central embraces the natural landscape, drawing inspiration from the River Ebbsfleet valley and the surrounding Kentish landscape. The public realm will feature active streetscapes, parks, and play areas, creating a people-friendly environment. The development will be fully integrated with existing transport systems, including Ebbsfleet International Railway Station, and will provide easy access to London and the surrounding areas.
Economic and Social Impact
Ebbsfleet Central is expected to be a major economic driver for the region, offering a range of job opportunities across various sectors, including office, retail, and cultural industries. The development is designed to attract both businesses and residents, creating a thriving community with easy access to London and other key locations in the South East. It is also expected to contribute to the wider Ebbsfleet Garden City initiative, fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the area's attractiveness for investment.
Timeline and Future Phases
The first phase of Ebbsfleet Central, Ebbsfleet Central East, is set to be completed by 2035. As the project progresses, future phases will expand the area with additional homes, commercial spaces, and community amenities. The development is a long-term commitment to transforming the area into a thriving and sustainable urban centre.
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