An ultrasound clinic in a doomed shopping centre has been left facing a bill for hundreds of pounds after thieves broke in.
Staff at Bump2Baby Scan discovered burglars had smashed windows at the unit in Park Mall, Ashford in the early hours of Sunday (August 24).
A TV was also stolen from the centre, which offers parents 4D and 5D ultrasound scans.
David Hebditch founded both Bump2Baby and neighbouring Baby Art Studios.
After moving to Park Mall in 2023, the 62-year-old director, who sold the business to staff last year but has a vested interest still in the shops, said: “We had the window smashed and the shop broken into.
“They took our 55-inch TV, which was bolted to a frame and worth about £600.
“We should get the window sorted through the insurance.
“But of course, with what’s happening with Park Mall, the new window is only going to be there a few months.
“I just think it was opportunists on a Saturday night who parked in the loading bay and drove off after nicking the TV.”
Officers say an investigation is underway to find those responsible.
A spokeswoman said: “Kent Police is investigating a report of criminal damage to a business in Park Mall, Ashford.
“Damage was caused to the window at 5.14am on Sunday.
“An investigation is underway and officers are urging anyone with information to call 01843 222289, quoting 46/148338/25.”
Six months have passed since owners of Park Mall, Ashford Borough Council (ABC), confirmed plans to flatten the centre to make way for an interim car park, and then a residential scheme.
The announcement in February was met with fury by traders, who were initially given until the end of August to leave. This was later extended to January 9 following a huge backlash.
Twenty-seven businesses were based in the centre when ABC made its announcement, but now only 20 remain, with more set to leave in the coming weeks.
Although Mr Hebditch has yet to announce what the future holds for Bump2Baby, he hopes it will remain in Ashford after the demolition.
However, Baby Art Studios is to move to the outskirts of Ashford this autumn.
The Park Farm resident added: “We’re having to move out of the town because we can’t find something available there.
“Bump2Baby Scan may relocate in Ashford as it’s such a good company.
“But Baby Art Studios is going to The Secret Garden in Mersham.
“We’ve signed the lease for that and should be moving in November.
“The footfall won’t be as good as in the town, but the parking is easier with no costs, and it has a lot of customers.
“The facilities should be nicer as well, but, of course, we’ve lost that community feeling.”
