ABOUT 400 jobs will be created with the construction of an extensive business estate and country park.

That is the claim of the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) which has now submitted its planning application for Snowdown Colliery.

The agency believes success for its proposals will bring massive regeneration to the Aylesham community.

Cllr Frederick Scales, of Dover District Council, said: "We certainly welcome the opportunity to create new jobs and help create a sustainable community for the future."

Almost 5,000 people live in Aylesham and Nonington, a community transformed by the closure of the colliery in 1989.

Next to the proposed 250,000 sq ft business park, it is hoped the area’s heritage and history will be captured within a 30-hectare country park.