AMBITIOUS plans to expand Bluewater by a fifth and create up to 2,300 jobs have moved a step closer to going ahead.

The shopping centre’s owners want to demolish part of the West Village and build 30,500 sqm of extra floor space.

Under the bold proposals, the lake will be altered but the number of parking spaces and access site will remain the same.

Last night Dartford Council’s development control board recommended the outline planning application for approval.

Robert Goodman, Bluewater’s General Manager, welcomed the decision.

“The council’s approval is an important milestone in the continued evolution of Bluewater, the creation of further employment opportunities, and the economic growth of North Kent.

"The focus will now be on developing the proposals over the coming months.”