Ebbsfleet Development Corporation (EDC) has published its Business Plan for 2026/27. It sets out a clear delivery programme for the year ahead as Ebbsfleet moves into its next phase of growth, with a strong focus on bringing forward Ebbsfleet town centre and continuing investment in existing neighbourhoods and local infrastructure.
The front runner to the New Towns Programme – Ebbsfleet is firmly a place not a plan. With 15,000 residents and strong transport connectivity – including four high-speed rail services per hour to St Pancras International, access to 2.5 million people within a 30-minute drive, and the Fastrack network connecting Ebbsfleet with Dartford, Gravesend, Bluewater and surrounding towns, it is well connected to London and the wider South East.
The central focus of the 2026/27 Business Plan is delivery of Ebbsfleet Central – the town centre and regional economic hug – the largest and most complex part of the development so far. Backed by £185 million of government funding and flexible planning approval, the priority is to put in the basic infrastructure needed so development can be delivered in stages. This includes new roads, utilities and public spaces around Ebbsfleet International Station. Early activity on site and temporary uses will bring life into the area sooner, test demand and support future investment.
Alongside Ebbsfleet town centre, continued delivery across existing neighbourhoods is confirmed, with a target of more than 300 new homes in 2026/27, alongside further investment in schools, transport, community infrastructure and local centres.
Key priorities include:
- Supporting the delivery of Alkerden Local Centre, including the start of construction of the Alkerden Hub
- Taking forward improvements at Castle Hill Local Centre, including temporary cultural uses and activity to support a stronger evening economy
- Supporting investment across Northfleet and Swanscombe, including new community facilities and improvements to local public spaces
- Delivering construction training and employment programmes for people in Dartford and Gravesham
- Progressing early design work for Blue Lake and setting out a long-term plan for the Swanscombe Peninsula
The Business Plan confirms continued investment in sustainable transport, with a £7m programme to improve Fastrack alongside better walking and cycling routes. It also sets out continued progress towards long-term stewardship, including close working with the Ebbsfleet Garden City Trust as it begins to take on community assets.
Sara Waller, Chief Executive of Ebbsfleet Development Corporation said: “Ebbsfleet is now an established place, with growing communities and new homes taking shape, supported by infrastructure that continues to come forward. This Business Plan sets out a clear year of delivery.
“The focus is firmly on Ebbsfleet Central, whilst maintaining momentum across neighbourhoods and local centres. Homes are being delivered, transport is improving and community facilities are becoming more established. This is about turning progress on the ground into a stronger, better-connected town for the future.“
Dr David Prout CB, Chair of Ebbsfleet Development Corporation said: “This Business Plan marks a clear shift from establishing Ebbsfleet’s foundations to delivering its next phase at pace. We have the land, funding and planning permission in place, and are now focused on delivery.
“Ebbsfleet town centre stands out as a nationally significant opportunity and the most complex part of the programme. The task ahead is to bring it forward in a disciplined, phased way that attracts long term investment and delivers a great place to live and work.“
The Business Plan is available to download on the EDC website.