Planning permission has been given for a new country park and housing development in Ashford, Kent.

The Conningbrook Lakes project will see the new site, formerly a quarry for sand and gravel, transformed into a country park with water-based activities, foot and cycle paths, nature trails, a water-front restaurant and a lakeside village of 300 homes.

The site will be planned and designed by BDB Design Ltd, based in Canterbury and The Brett Group will carry out construction work.

Ashford Borough Council has also been granted planning permission for initial use of the land prior to the housing construction, meaning work can start to make sections of the park available for use early next year.

Further development of the long-term facilities will be linked to funding from the phased housing development.

"Conningbrook Lakes will ultimately be one of the best facilities of its kind in the South East," said Mark Carty, head of cultural and project services for Ashford Borough Council. "Offering a combination of sailing, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, walking, cycling and family friendly leisure all in one place and in stunning surroundings."