A designer clothes store is set to replace empty units at an outdoor shopping centre.

Plans for Flannels, which is owned by Sports Direct owner Mike Ashley, to come to Fremlin Walk in Maidstone have been submitted.

If approved, the "luxury" shop would convert the old Thomas Cook store, which closed in 2019, the former Early Learning Centre and two other empty units outside House of Fraser.

Planning documents reveal designs for Flannels to open a large two-storey shop.

The development would see the inside of the units changed as well as a lift and stairs being added.

The outside of the building will keep its brick exterior, but with an added black block above the doors to keep in style with Flannels design.

Currently only unit 39, the former travel agents, is being used by the centre manager as an exhibition space.

The planning application has been submitted by Joseph Smith, senior acquisitions and estate manager for the Fraser Group, which runs Sports Direct and other retail groups around the country.

The company has been approached for comment.

Last week, KentOnline looked back at when Maidstone was the shopping capital of Kent.

You can view the plans here.

Use reference 23/500296/FULL for the planning documents.