Ashford Designer Outlet wants to more than double the size of its Christmas market – but bosses stress it will not be competing with the town centre.
Site owner McArthurGlen has pitched the idea to Ashford Borough Council (ABC) after hosting its first festive market last year.
Nine stalls were set up between Starbucks and Ralph Lauren in the centre’s extension, but chiefs now hope to increase that to 21.
They have also asked for permission to run the site from November 1 to January 1 this winter – more than two weeks longer than last year.
Consultancy firm Montagu Evans, which has submitted the application on behalf of the outlet, hopes the market can also run on a five-year contract until 2029.
If approved, 11 stalls would be on the same centre plot as last year.
The remaining 10 would be stationed along two main walkways in the original section of the outlet – four outside Wagamama and six near Lacoste on the opposite side.
Information submitted in the planning documents reads: “The proposed temporary winter market will enhance the attractiveness of the site and encourage longer customer dwell times.
“It comprises an upgraded and expanded version of the temporary market that operated in 2024.
“This was a well-received seasonal attraction, enhancing the visitor experience and supporting retail activity at the outlet during the festive period.
“It does not intend to compete with the town centre and it is not of a size that would create a destination in its own right.
“In addition to the proposed wooden market stalls, a large tree will be erected adjacent to the stairs leading to the Starbucks unit. It will be decorated with LED lights and star lanterns.”
Montagu Evans states any shorter period than the proposed two months “would represent a financial risk” to stall operators.
The stalls would be open from 9am until 9pm Monday to Saturday, and from 10am until 6pm on Sundays.
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A decision on the application is expected by August 18.
Meanwhile, ABC is yet to decide on controversial plans for a temporary Ferris wheel on part of the centre’s main car park.
If approved, the 108ft structure – which includes 24 separate gondolas – would operate six months a year for the next five years.
But residents living nearby have raised privacy concerns over the observation wheel.
