Leisure complex set for major revamp

Plans to transform a leisure complex into a "new entertainment and cultural destination" have been announced by a council.

Elwick Place, in Ashford, Kent, is set for a major revamp that will include a cinema, family attractions, social gaming and workspace facilities.

The Ashford Cinema, Snap Fitness and Travelodge will continue operating throughout the works, with the new facilities expected to open by late summer 2026.

Matches, the former sports bar on the site, will not be part of the redevelopment and has been offered alternative locations, Ashford Borough Council said.

The Ashford Cinema was taken over in 2024 after Picturehouse announced its departure, with the council stepping in as owners.

Its contract was extended in 2025 while the council said it would look for a permanent solution for the site.

The new proposals include mini golf, golf simulators, interactive darts, batting cages, arcade games and a live events space.

A new workspace will offer drop‑in desks, private rooms and meeting areas for groups.

A spokesperson for The Big Picture, the team behind the proposal, said the ambition was to create "an all‑day space where people can move between work, play, cinema, and socialise all under one roof".

The council said it had provided Matches with a settlement to support relocation and transition costs.

Matches confirmed it would close on 29 March, adding: "While the council did offer alternative locations (namely below the Travelodge) these would not be suitable for the business.

"The owner has told us he will remain on the lookout for a suitable venue within Ashford but with no guarantee of this and no time frame in mind we (the Matches Ashford staff) are all facing redundancy."

Construction work is expected to begin shortly, with further images and details to be released in the coming months.

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