Kingston’s reputation as a centre for culture and shopping will diminish unless the town is completely overhauled, developers have warned.

Speaking at Kingston Council’s development control committee on Wednesday representatives from British Land and Universities Superannuation Scheme revealed revised plans for a new Eden Walk.

The plans include 18,000 sq m of retail space, leisure facilities and offices alongside the 380 homes – none of which would be affordable.

Instead developers said they will offer 10 per cent of the units as discounted “starter homes” and the council will get £3m after developers have made 15 per cent profit.

Profits will then be split equally between the developers and the council.

Project director Mathew Secker said: “In the last 12 months footfall and car park usage in Kingston has fallen by 4 per cent.

"We have a desire to make [this scheme] a reality and are committed to making Kingston the top of its game.”

But angry residents dismissed the developer's claims, saying that the project would put too much pressure on the town’s facilities.

Andree Freize said: “Where is the doctor’s surgery? Where is the school for the people who will live in these new homes?

“The [current Eden Walk] may not be perfect but it is a place where you don’t have to buy something to sit down.”