Park Mall in Ashford closes permanently ahead of demolition as part of the town’s redevelopment plans, ending its 37-year history
Park Mall Shopping Centre to Close Permanently
Park Mall shopping centre, once called the “heartbeat of Ashford” by council leaders, will close today. The site, which housed major retailers like Next, Topshop, and Boots, will shut down for good this evening.
Owner Ashford Borough Council (ABC) plans to demolish the units later this year. This decision has upset traders who have had to relocate or leave the town entirely.
Reasons for Decline
Ashford historian Steve Salter believes the extension of the nearby County Square shopping centre in 2008 and the opening of Ashford Designer Outlet in 2000 contributed to Park Mall’s decline. He stated, “I think the outlet has been a huge nail in the coffin.”
Salter also suggested that Park Mall should have been made an undercover facility like County Square to attract more visitors.
History of Park Mall
Park Mall opened in September 1987 after nearly a decade of planning. It was built on land that previously had houses and commercial buildings. By the 2000s, it was home to many national chains.
ABC acquired the leasehold in 2015, after many national retailers had left. When demolition plans were announced in February, 24 businesses still operated there.
Recent Departures
The most notable recent closure was Wilko, which left its flagship unit in 2023. Salter recalled that Sainsbury’s, which occupied the space in the early 1990s, attracted more foot traffic.
Future Plans for the Site
ABC plans to demolish Park Mall and the neighboring Edinburgh Road car park. They will create a temporary 200-space car park on the former Park Mall site while exploring future development ideas.
The council has expressed a desire to turn Park Mall into residential units but has not specified how many will be built. They are currently seeking a “development partner.”
Statements from Officials
Former ABC leader Cllr Gerry Clarkson stated that the demolition will continue the borough’s achievements. He believes housing will be built in the area.
Former ABC cabinet member Graham Galpin noted that town centres are evolving rather than collapsing. He mentioned that County Square has also faced closures but has plans for a £60 million extension with 200 flats.
ABC’s Long-Term Vision
In a statement, ABC said it has always aimed to redevelop the area away from retail. They acknowledged that the Covid pandemic slowed redevelopment efforts but now see the need to progress with regeneration plans.
ABC claims that the new residential-led, mixed-use development will rejuvenate the town centre and transform it into a vibrant destination.
Concerns About Future Development
Rob Woods, a former town centre manager, expressed concerns that the council may replace retail with similar concepts without addressing the underlying issues that led to Park Mall’s decline.
ABC has not provided timelines for the demolition and redevelopment of Park Mall and Edinburgh Road but promises updates in the future.
Summary of Key Facts
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Park Mall Opening | September 1987 | Opened after nearly a decade of planning. |
| ABC Acquires Leasehold | 2015 | Acquired after many national chains left. |
| Demolition Announcement | February 2023 | 24 businesses were still operating at the time. |
| Wilko Departure | 2023 | Left its flagship unit. |
| Temporary Car Park Plan | Future | 200-space car park to be established. |
