The mammoth scheme is being backed by development vehicle London Resort Company Holdings, set up by Brookfield Multiplex, Development Securities and current land owner Lafarge.

Plans to develop an 872 acre brown field site into one of the UK’s largest regeneration projects by 2018 moved forward today after it was revealed the developers have been granted a licence from Paramount Pictures to use its name on the resort.

The backers said the project has also been offered “support” by Dartford and Gravesham Borough Councils.

It would feature Europe’s largest indoor water park, theatres, live music venues, attractions, cinemas, restaurants, event space and hotels.

LRCH is also in negotiations with a range of major British brands to sign licensing agreements.

Tony Sefton, project leader for LRCH, said: “Our vision is to create a world class entertainment destination, the first of its kind in the UK.

“We are at the start of a long journey, but have been encouraged by the support and buy-in we have had to date.

“We are particularly pleased with the appetite we are seeing from investors, who consider this a compelling investment proposition.”

He added: “Post Olympics, this is Britain’s next major regeneration opportunity.

“Over the next 12-18 months we will be progressing the planning application, while embarking on a wide-reaching programme of community consultation, while securing further commercial agreements with third parties.

“Our timetable for delivery, including the planning application process and construction timetable, is geared towards completion and opening in 2018.”

In a joint statement, Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Borough Council and John Burden, leader of Gravesham Borough Council, said: “This development represents a tremendous economic growth opportunity for the region.

“We have been impressed by LRCH’s commitment to integrating the development with the local community, recognising the many economic and social benefits it promises to deliver.”

Swanscombe Peninsula site

Proposed Paramount resort