Park Mall Shopping Centre tenants told they can stay until January 2026

Ashford Borough Council has today written to Park Mall tenants telling them they can stay beyond the original date of the end of August, with the new date being extended by four months to January 2026. This is a result of ongoing discussions to help facilitate a smoother transition with tenants and also allows them to continue to trade during the festive period.

Ashford Borough Council Chief Executive, Tracey Kerly said: “We have been actively engaging with all tenants and listening to the feedback. Several tenants said they needed more time, so we hope this extension will assist tenants in their search for new premises, and, coupled with the support we are already offering means they can successfully relocate their businesses.”

The council is prepared to make arrangements for all Park Mall tenants to stay in occupation until 9 January 2026, and will be in touch with tenants with the relevant paperwork, unless they find alternative premises in the meantime.

In the decade since acquiring the leasehold of Park Mall in 2015 as part of its long-term regeneration aspirations for the town centre, the council has sought to support local traders by offering flexible models to encourage diversity and increase footfall, whilst at the same time meeting our operating costs. 

Despite our best efforts, the continuing decline in the retail sector and the departure of several anchor tenants, combined with escalating maintenance works has resulted in the centre running at a significant, unsustainable loss.

In December 2024, to mitigate future financial pressures, the council took the difficult decision to progress plans to the next stage. A key step in this redevelopment process is achieving possession of the site and appointment of contractors will be scheduled to commence demolition works shortly thereafter.

“We fully understand that this represents a difficult and uncertain time for our valued tenants and appreciate the services the businesses provide to residents and visitors of the town centre. We remain fully committed to working with them during the relocation period”, Tracey added.

A summary of the relocation support the Council is offering to tenants

• Extended Vacancy Date: The council will make arrangements for tenants to remain in occupation until 9 January 2026, subject to completion of relevant paperwork, providing tenants with additional time to find new premises.
• Dedicated Council Support Officer: A dedicated council officer will continue to work with tenants, offering tailored support for individual relocation plans.
• Town Centre Empty Premises Grant: Opportunity to apply for a grant of up to £10,000 to assist with relocating the businesses within the town centre.
• Three-Month Rent Refund: Tenants will receive a rent refund for the final three months of your lease (this has been extended to 9 January 2026 on the same terms as outlined in the letter dated 20 March 2025).
• Flexible Departure Option: Tenants have the flexibility to leave at any point before 9 January 2026. No rent will be charged from the date tenants vacate the premises, meaning there is no penalty for leaving early.

Further information about the project, including the rationale can be found on our initial announcement about Park Mall.