Plans to extend Bluewater shopping centre by 330,000 sq ft are moving forward after owner Lend Lease submitted the planning application today.

The extension will add space across the centre’s shopping and catering areas in the west village, creating up to 2,300 jobs.

A decision is expected from Kent County Council in spring.

Lend Lease head of retail development Richard Coppell said: “The submission of the outline planning application signifies the single biggest milestone in the evolution of Bluewater since it opened.  

“That the plans have been so well-received during the pre-application consultation is an endorsement of both their appropriateness for Bluewater and the positive way in which we work in collaboration with the community and retailers.”

Gareth Johnson, MP for Dartford, has lent his support to the application.

He said: “Lend Lease’s proposals are not only welcomed as the next stage in Bluewater’s evolution, but are seen as of great benefit to the area.”