Communiqués de presse
Business leaders back commuter links with France
French economic and political leaders have united to back commuter rail links between Kent and Northern France.
Kent firms in Calais to promote cross-Channel business
Kent businesses will be in Calais tomorrow at a jobs fair that could accelerate the number of cross-Channel workers.
Rail link on track to be a real benefit
In a few months the High Speed Javelin Fleet will be carrying train passengers from Ashford to north London in 37 minutes. Hobbs Parker’s Alex Davies looks at this shot in the arm for the Kent property market.
Minister investigates Kent Crossrail link
Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon will visit north Kent later this afternoon to look into the possibility of extending Crossrail trains to the area.
Another step forward for Eureka Business Park in growth town Ashford
The second phase of the Northdown development and a new Basepoint scheme at Eureka Business Park have been given the green light by Ashford Borough Council.
Giant horse to become £2m artwork
A giant white horse has been chosen as a new £2m art commission for south east England dubbed "Angel of the South".
New ferry service launches early
Up to 100 jobs are being created with the launch of two new ferry services from the Kent port of Dover.
Life in Kent is great: it's official!
Congratulations! Kent has the third best quality of life in England!
Salads grown in giant greenhouses
Millions of tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers being served on British salad plates this summer will be coming from a new giant greenhouse complex in Kent.
Folkestone to London in 49 minutes
A key figure in Folkestone's regeneration has branded revised, 50-minute commuting times "fantastic".
Kent's blueprint for the next 20 years
Kent County Council has spelled out the huge challenges facing the county over the next 20 years.
Ashford leads the way with ultrafast broadband
Ashford is poised to benefit from the latest fibre optic broadband technology, which will give a vital boost to the local economy and bring a range of new products and services for work, leisure, entertainment and community services.
Port set for unexpected new ferry service
The port of Ramsgate is to get another continental crossing, with Euroferries unexpectedly announcing the launch of a new service to Boulogne-sur-Mer.
2009: The Year of the Tourists?
The plunging pound will be good news for Kent tourism next year, experts predict.
Scheduled service back at airport
One of Europe's biggest low cost carriers is to start flying out of Kent International Airport from next summer.
Launchpad UK campaign for foreign businesses to take off
A new campaign aimed at maximising foreign direct investment in the UK was launched at Thames Gateway Forum on Wednesday 26 November.
Pfizer Scientist Enters Inventors Hall of Fame
A Pfizer scientist from Kent, whose work has helped to save millions of lives, has been recognised by the US National Inventors Hall of Fame.
KSRC Injects Talent into the UK’s Bioscience Industry
A landmark project that’s helping to tackle one of the South East biggest issues facing the science industry – the skills gap, has been officially opened.
Kent Shares in Infratil’s Success
Confidence at Kent International Airport is high following a significant rise in the level of freight being handled and the start of the 2008 charter holiday season with flights serving 8 destinations.
Kent hotelier invests £1.5 million in new White Cliffs property
A Kent businessman who transformed a once derelict manor house into an award-winning hotel is launching a second property in Dover following a £1.5 million investment. Gavin Oakley, who heads the team behind the 4-star Wallett’s Court Country House Hotel and Spa in Westcliffe, near Dover, opens for business this week at The White Cliffs Hotel, just a mile away in the village of St Margaret’s-at-Cliffe.
Williams takes over as Kent Thameside acting chief
The Kent Thameside Delivery Board has announced that Paul Williams has taken over as acting chief executive.
Kent Economy - Locate in Kent comment
Following yesterday’s article, ‘Bank of England signals worst is over’ in the Financial Times, Paul Wookey, Chief Executive of Locate in Kent said: “Despite the general concern about the nation’s economy, Locate in Kent is continuing to receive a good flow of enquiries from companies interested in investing in the county, and there is no indication that any of the Kent’s major commercial developers are planning to delay projects.
Kent's rich list
An insurance mogul based in Kent was one of the highest climbers in this year’s Sunday Times Rich List.
Manston airport: have your say today
Kent International Airport is undertaking a major public survey to measure the demand for the airport near Ramsgate.
Marlowe Innovation Centre
A new business centre which will offer students a place to get experience in work as well as companies a place to trade is due to open in Ramsgate at the end of the month but so far no firms have signed up to take a unit.
Pensions transfer worth £14.7m
Insurer Reliance Mutual is poised to take on thousands of extra pension policies.
Die is cast as Hornby take over Corgi
Hornby, the Kent-based models and collectibles group, has taken over an iconic name in model cars. The Thanet company famous for its model railways, Scalextric slot car racing cars, Airfix models and Humbrol paints, is the new owner of Corgi, the famous die-cast model business.
Kent triumphs at London film awards
Kent film-makers have been celebrating after sweeping the boards at the London Independent Film Festival.
Webloyalty launches first UK call centre
Marketing service provider Webloyalty has created its first contact centre, generating 20 new agent jobs in Sevenoaks, Kent.
Endorsement For Kent Airport - Lydd Airport
Leader of Kent County Council, Cllr Paul Carter, has given a boost to plans to modernise and expand Lydd Airport on Romney Marsh in Kent.
Ashford receives hero award
Ashford Borough Council has been recognised by a leading environmental charity in their ‘Green Heroes’ Awards. The council won the regional partnership award for their work on the innovative Singleton Environment Centre in the ancient market town of Kent.
Massive regeneration project planned for Folkestone
Roger De Haan, ex-Saga boss, has announced he is in negotiations with a developer to take on his large seafront regeneration project in Folkestone, Kent.
New Buildings To Unlock Business Potential - Kent Science Park
Technology-based companies in search of a new home need look no further than Kent Science Park after the completion of a new specially designed building.
Chandlers expand into Kent
Sussex-based Independent builders merchants Chandlers Building Supplies, were celebrating earlier this month after opening a brand new branch.
Cash injection to aid business research
GREAT news for local business and academia – a University of Kent research centre has been awarded
£100,000 worth of funding to enable it to develop even closer ties with the business community.
£100,000 worth of funding to enable it to develop even closer ties with the business community.
Ashford plans £2.5bn investment to compete with railway rival
Ashford is growing. Over the next 23 years the town aims to double in size. A total of £2.5bn in investment has been earmarked from the public and private sectors, which it is hoped will lead to the creation of 28,000 jobs and the development of 31,000 homes.
Kent Tourism Research - Sustained Growth
Tourism is looking up in Kent, according to the latest research measuring the impact the industry has on the local economy.
Ebbsfleet homes
Major plans to build nearly 1,400 homes have been put forward for Ebbsfleet.
Kent firm responds as 90 per cent of people apply for jobs online
Ten new jobs have been created in a £100,000 investment by a Kent firm.
Building to house rare documents
A multi-million pound centre is to be built to house Kent's rare and valuable historical documents, which form one of the largest collections in the country.
New Eurostar stations have attracted new customers
Eurostar has reported a big increase in passengers at the start of 2008.
Kent Riviera rides wave of regeneration
New transport links and arty-regeneration projects are restoring port and seaside towns across Kent to their former glory, transforming them into top commuter towns and excellent investment opportunities, reveals the Homebuyer and Property Investor Show (7-9 March, ExCel, London).
Council seeks public view of £300m proposal
The Leader of Dartford council has urged residents to get involved shaping the vision for the town's future.
First phase of Folkestone plan complete
The massive regeneration of the seafront at Folkestone may take until 2020 to complete, it was revealed this week.
Growing Buryfield Grange moves to Chatham
Buryfield Grange has moved offices from its Gillingham base to Chatham to accommodate the IFA firm’s growth plans.
£10 Million Accelerator Fund - Funding for regional businesses
Companies across the region with rapid growth potential can now gain access to a multi-million pound pot of funding after Finance South East and Clydesdale Bank joined forces.
Furley Page sponsors Medway Business Awards
Leading south east law firm Furley Page is to join the sponsors of a prestigious annual event – Medway Business Awards 2008 - which recognises the hard work and innovation of the area’s 10,000 small enterprises.
Ashford leads the way with ambitious urban renewal scheme
One of Europe’s most ambitious urban renewal schemes could provide the blueprint that will inspire towns and cities across the UK to take a radical new approach to street design.
Enhancements are needed for Tunbridge Wells
Businesses in Tunbridge Wells want the borough council and its advisers to focus on attracting growing businesses in order to create wealth and jobs.
Seaside towns funding welcomed by Kent MP
A Kent MP has welcomed a Government announcement that it will plough millions of pounds into seaside towns.
3,000 delegates expected at 2020 business show
English historian Dr David Starkey CBE was the keynote speaker at the Visit Kent Tourism Forum during the Kent 2020 Exhibition at the Kent County Showground, Detling, on Thursday 3 April.
Kent set for High Speed 1 boom
Property prices in Kent are set to experience a significant boost, on the back of the expansion of the Channel Tunnel rail network.
Ashford's Future
The ancient market town of Ashford in Kent is due to unveil the Singleton Environment Centre, a landmark development with exemplary green credentials. The concept underpinning the centre is based on an integrated architectural, environmental and landscaping strategy which has produced a stunningly original building.
Thousands expected at Kent 2020 show
Final preparations are under way for this year’s Kent 2020 Vision.
ING completes Ashford extension
ING Real Estate has completed its £120m extension at County Square Shopping Centre in Ashford, Kent. The development has doubled the size of the centre’s existing space to create a 435,000-sq ft shopping destination. It brings the total number of units at the centre to over 50 and will also include a 620 space multi-storey car park.
Kent Company Set To Clean Up After Budget
A Kent company well placed to benefit from the Chancellor Alistair Darling’s first Budget is Ecologia, the environmental consultancy and specialist ground remediation company, based at Kent Science Park.
Rescue plans for area go on show
A Master plan for the future of the Dover district in the next 20 years is being revealed to the public Thursday 27 March.
How Maidstone is managing to change
Maidstone is fast becoming home to businesses from a variety of different sectors. TUSP, a top 70 UK management consultancy, has recently relocated here from Surrey. So why does it see Maidstone as pivotal to the success of its growth plans?
The round-the-clock urban idyll
Maidstone has a growing reputation for being the best place to live, work, shop and relax in a modern day urban environment. It is host to Kent's largest Millennium project, a six-mile river park of high quality landscaped open space and public art, showcasing luxury riverside apartments and contemporary sustainable developments.
Sheps is nation's top regional brewer
Britain’s oldest brewer, Faversham-based Shepherd Neame, has been named Regional Brewer of the Year at the pub industry’s gold-plated annual awards.
Kent - Region of the future
Kent has been named as one of the top 25 European Regions of the Future 2008/9 in a bi-annual shortlist compiled by fDi magazine, published by the Financial Times.
Lorry park solution is right
Transport experts have backed Kent County Council’s Operation Stack lorry park proposal – and they say more are needed.
Ashford’s County Square reopens after £65m extension
The new £65m County Square extension opens for business on 20th March. County Square, in the historic market town of Ashford, Kent is nearly twice its original size and is home to a host of new fashion retailers including Debenhams, Next, H&M, River Island, New Look and Jane Norman, revitalising the shopping experience in the region.
Marlowe Innovation Centre - May opening
Marlowe Innovation Centre, the new £1.9million cutting edge centre for business in east Kent, is due to open this May to facilitate the growth and development of small or start-up businesses.
Medical centre will create 150 jobs in growth town Ashford
Outline plans for a new multi-million pound medical centre creating 150 jobs have been approved by Ashford Borough Council.
King and co in Cannes for property show
A team from Kent has travelled to the South of France for a leading annual market in international property trade.
'Kent is one of the top places to do business'
Kent has been named as one of the top 25 European Regions of the Future 2008-09. It came fourth after Scotland, Flanders and Northern Ireland.
Ashford gets building boost
New body set up to rescue council’s efforts to build 31,000 homes in and around town by 2031
Morrisons plans 920,000 sq ft distribution centre
Morrisons is to open a 920,000 sq ft distribution centre at G. Park Sittingbourne in Kent. The development will be split across two units at the site and will be used by Morrisons to service and supply its South East stores and will provide up to 1,000 new jobs for local people.
Port's Olympic bid
The Olympic torch could be passing through Dover in 2012.
Medway towns are the ideal homes move
Commuter links, dockyard development and access to Bluewater have combined to get the Medway Towns tipped as one of the property hotspots for 2008.A report by the Independent newspaper highlighted Chatham as a particularly good place for "smart money to move next".
Property Developer Makes His Mark
A Kent entrepreneur has made it into a national league table for his industry at the young age of only 33.
Boleyn film set to boost tourism in Kent
Millions of pounds could pour into the Kent economy on the back of a big budget new film, tourism chiefs believe.
Cabot Financial set for global recognition
Cabot Financial Group, market leader in debt purchase, has been short listed in two categories for the 3rd annual Contact Centre World Awards. Cabot has been put on the short list for Best Contact Centre, meanwhile Ken Maynard, CEO, has been Highly Commended as Best Contact Centre Leader.
Ashford's County Square reopens after £65m extension
The new £65m County Square extension opens for business on 20th March. County Square, in Ashford, Kent is nearly twice its original size and is home to a host of new fashion retailers including Debenhams, Next, H&M, River Island, New Look and Jane Norman, revitalising the shopping experience in the ancient market town of Kent.
Ashford construction companies build a greener future
Construction companies across the Ashford area have been given the opportunity to build a greener future by reducing and recycling waste generated on building sites in the Kent market town.
Marlowe plan boosted by a £3m donation
Ambitious redevelopment plans for Canterbury's Marlowe Theatre and Beaney Institute have been boosted by a £2.95million donation.
M J Gleeson named preferred development partner for Margate regeneration scheme
LONDON (Thomson Financial) -
MJ Gleeson Group PLC said it has been selected as the preferred development partner for Margate regeneration scheme in north east Kent.
MJ Gleeson Group PLC said it has been selected as the preferred development partner for Margate regeneration scheme in north east Kent.
Abel & Cole expands into into Kent
Organic home delivery company, Abel & Cole, is expanding its business to Kent with plans to create 40 new jobs in the area over the next three years. With the assistance of investment promotion agency, Locate in Kent, Abel & Cole has leased a new delivery depot in Aylesford, Kent.
Natural gas equipment manufacturer expands in Kent
Kent-based Paget CNG Ltd, a leading international manufacturer of natural gas refuelling equipment for the automotive industry, is expanding in Thanet with the assistance of investment promotion agency, Locate in Kent.
Minister sees Bridge buildings
A major housing development has been visited by a Government minister.
Tenterden improvement plans to go on show
Designs outlining £500,000 worth of improvements to key parts of Tenterden town centre go on public display this weekend.
Loan added to the mix
A manufacturer of food machinery has the recipe for success.
Dijon delegation keen on Kent Enterprise Hub Model
A high level delegation from Burgundy in France visited the Sittingbourne Enterprise Hub (SEH) based at Kent Science Park (KSP) to discover how to best nurture and encourage high growth companies.
Making town a 'vibrant growth area'
The Church Commissioners will work with developers to make sure Cheeseman's Green is a sustainable community.
Landmark will 'carry' rainwater and people
European officials have given Ashford £1 million to create a controversial piece of public art called The Flume.
Sales boost for summer getaways at Manston
Soaring demand for summer getaways from Kent International Airport (KIA) has resulted in some routes, including Croatia on the Adriatic coast, selling out completely.
Near 100 new jobs for Chatham's Asda store
ASDA, the UK’s second biggest grocer after Tesco and owned by US global retail giant Wal-Mart, today announced major plans for one of its stores in Kent creating around 100 jobs.
London Ashford Airport - Demand fuels recruitment
A sharp increase in business at London Ashford Airport (Lydd) in Kent has sparked a recruitment drive to meet rising demand.
Rushenden Regeneration - Royal visit
His Royal Highness the Earl of Wessex visited community facility The Gateway at Rushenden, Isle of Sheppey, on Wednesday 20th February where he got the opportunity to find out more about one of SEEDA's most prominent regeneration projects.
Works begin on Dover regeneration
An archaeological survey has been launched as the initital step in a multi-million pound regeneration of Dover Town Centre.
Plans approved for Turner gallery
Approval has been given to build a modern art gallery on a site where 19th Century artist JMW Turner stayed on his visits to Margate, Kent.
Kent plans sustainable neighbourhood
Designs for a sustainable and largely car-free new neighbourhood in Kent aim to bring about change to a run-down area of the Isle of Sheppey.
Cabot Financial recognised as one of fastest growing private equity backed companies
Cabot Financial Group, market leader in debt purchase, has been recognised as one of the fastest growing private equity backed companies in the UK for the second year running.
Treasury money could help social regeneration
A multi-cultural community centre for Medway could benefit from a late government windfall.
Thames Gateway Kent courts science
Science and technology companies are being courted by the Thames Gateway amid an ambitious expansion of science park space.
The case for Kent International Airport
Kent International Airport at Manston should be part of the solution to the shortage of airport capacity, not an airport on the Thames Estuary as suggested by Boris Johnson, said Paul Carter, the Leader of Kent County Council.
Thanet is Land of Opportunities, says new organisation
A new organisation to drive forward the commercial development of two key areas of land in Thanet has been unveiled.
Support Sittingbourne Skills Centre
To help prepare the next generation for the world of work, Sittingbourne Skills Centre, on the Eurolink Industrial Estate, will be offering a range of building services and engineering vocational programmes from this September.
Blueprint for Sittingbourne overhaul
A Master plan for the future of Sittingbourne is to be drawn up by Urban Initiatives, a company that does not need a map to find its way around town.
Dockyard hotel given thumbs up
Medway's economy has been given a big boost with the opening of a new hotel in Chatham Historic Dockyard.
Cabot Financial accredited for quality management systems
Cabot Financial Group, market leader in debt purchase, has been accredited for its Quality Management Systems by the British Standards Institute.
£6.5m road 'will boost economy'
Work on a £6.5m road that is set to bring jobs and an economic boost to Thanet has got under way.
Cliff face work underway in Ramsgate
Repairs to the cliff face are well under way in preparation for the Royal Sands development at Marina Esplanade in Ramsgate.The plans include a 60-bedroom hotel and 107 apartments with mooring facilities, plus cafes, restaurants, a fitness centre and kid's play area.
£104m deal secures papermaking jobs
Hundreds of papermaking jobs have been secured by a £104 million deal for Kemsley mill.
KCC announces new £6.5m road for Thanet
Work is underway on a new £6.5million spine road in Thanet.
Towergate buys close to head office
Towergate has continued its expansive growth strategy with the acquisition of £8m gross written premium commercial Maidstone-based insurance broker Woodgate and Partners.
New road good for Thanet
Work is underway on a new £6.5million spine road which will be good for business and local residents in Thanet.
Virtual Assistance in the real business world
Two Kent businesswomen have teamed up to launch a new company: KentVA Limited.
Event for Kent companies looking to tap into US markets
An event to inform Kent companies about business markets and opportunities in the state of Virginia in the US will be taking place on Tuesday 19 February from 9.30-12pm in Locate in Kent’s boardroom at 2 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill.
International Station still to get spruce up
Eurostar is to spend £750,000 on refurbishments at Ashford International, despite its parent company's plans to sell it.
Counter-terrorism role for innovation centre
Medway is poised to be at the forefront of counter-terrorism technology.
Work set to start at £5m business park
The Thanet economy has been given a welcome boost with news that work is due to start on a business park that will create up to 150 jobs.
Five developers shortlisted for SEEDA's key mixed-use scheme in the growth area of Ashford, Kent
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), together with partners Ashford Borough Council, Kent County Council and English Partnerships, are delighted to have selected a shortlist of developers from expressions of interest in Elwick Place, a major town centre development site in the designated Growth Area of Ashford, Kent, following the presentation of the opportunity to the market in October 2007.
Town plans set builders abuzz
Housing developers have been lining up to build new homes as part of a rejuvenated Sittingbourne town centre, according to Swale Council's regeneration officer.Barbara Thompson, who started her job in September, said the prospect of land being released had proved exciting for house-builders.
Eurokent Business Park - 100 jobs created for Thanet
Work on a new business park which will create up to 150 jobs in Thanet is about to start thanks to a joint venture between the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and Thanet District Council (TDC).
The Gateway To Europe - EU Commissioner visit
EU Commissioner for Regional Policy Danuta Hübner is to make her first visit to the South East of England to see first hand some of the most exciting regeneration projects supported by European funds in the Thames Gateway today (Tuesday 29th January, 2008) as part of a two-day visit to the Greater South East.
Dock's development takes off
The twin towers of Medway are under construction, with completion expected in 12 months.The Chatham Quays build is part of the South East England Development Agency's multimillion pound regeneration of Chatham Maritime.
Eurostar Ebbsfleet - Official opening
Dame Kelly Holmes, winner of two Olympic gold medals, today (29 January) officially opened Ebbsfleet International – heralding the new Eurostar station just off the M25 as the gateway from southern and eastern England to mainland Europe.
Dame Kelly to open Eurostar station
Eurostar's new station, Ebbsfleet International, is due to be officially opened by double Olympic Gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes.
£22M to spend on town's future
Ashford's regeneration project has been given a major boost after government officials injected more than £20 million into the plans.
Village plan for Dockyard
Exciting plans to develop 27 acres of the former Chatham Dockyard which have remained virtually untouched since its closure more than 20 years ago could create a multimillion-pound mini village.
‘Italian Job’ for Ecologia
Growing international demand for its expertise has led Ecologia Environmental Solutions, the environmental consultancy and specialist remediation company, based at Kent Science Park, to establish an Italian subsidiary.
Brownfield award for cleanup contractor
Rochester Riverside contractor Edmund Nuttall, which has been cleaning up the 32 hectares of contaminated land before construction begins, has won a national award for its work.
Architect’s masterpiece is finished
Restoration work has been completed at Springfield House, Maidstone following a two year contract undertaken by Sittingbourne-based builder B W May & Son.
Eco-Friendly Office Conversion Wins Seeda Award - Cranbrook
A farm building conversion in Cranbrook, Kent incorporating some of the latest energy saving technology, has won a £40,000 grant from the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).
Vivacta - 'Just what the Doctor ordered'
A Kent Science Park-based company has secured a multi-million pound boost to help it expand by turning its groundbreaking medical technologies into commercial successful devices for use in doctors’ surgeries.
Residents say town’s regeneration is ‘vital’
A survey has found residents are in favour of regeneration in their town centre.
Chance to buy experts' skills
Non-profit organisations will be able to receive up to £70,000 funding, as part of a bid to help regeneration in Swale.
Homes will alter the landscape
Land at Manston Road in Ramsgate is to be transformed into a development of 207 houses and apartments.
Firms learn how to save by going green
More than 250 businesses are expected to come to Gillingham next month to find out how to save money while benefiting the environment.
New name marks 10 year collaboration
From the 1st January 2008 Kent based commercial developer Scarborough & Benchmark Estates has re-branded as Valad and Benchmark Estates following the £685m acquisition by Valad Property Group of Scarborough Development Group Plc in July last year.
A new lease of life
In the coming year work will begin on a major regeneration of Dover town centre.
Plans to regenerate the Isle of Sheppey
Plans to regenerate the eastern end of the Isle of Sheppey using a slice of a £24 million government fund are to be aired in a public consultation likely to cost £300,000.
Cash boost hopes for Faversham Creek plan as inspector backs council vision
The Faversham Town Council budget for the coming year is likely to include £10,000 for improvements to Faversham Creek and £5,000 for the Alexander Centre.
Shepherd Neame use cooking oil to run drays
Cooking oil from brewer Shepherd Neame's pubs is being recycled into biodiesel and sold back to the Faversham brewery for use in its drays delivering beer to the pubs.
Kent business owners urged to review their assets
New tax rules likely to be introduced in April may leave business owners short changed if they want to sell assets or shares, according to Kent company commercial lawyer Susan Jennings.
Preferred Partner Chosen For Redevelopment - Tunbridge Wells
Ambitious plans to revitalise Royal Tunbridge Wells, Paddock Wood, Cranbrook and Southborough have taken a major step forward with the selection of the preferred developer.
Opening date for 105-bedroom hotel
The official opening of Thanet's latest hotel at the Prospect Inn site at Minster is on Thursday, January 24.
£24.4m Bewl Water link is vital to help sustain Ashford's ambitious development plans
Work has begun on the final phase of a major supply project to meet demand for water in the Kent market town of Ashford, now the fastest growing region between London and the Continent.
Margate pier arm to be lit up with bars, restaurants and artists' studios
Bars, restaurants and artist studios could open as early as next February on Margate's harbour arm.
Jobs boost as firm moves out of capital
Another big business is moving into a Kent town – with the company saying jobs will be created in the future as it expands.
Ashford International Station still to get spruce up
Eurostar is to spend £750,000 on refurbishments at Ashford International, despite its parent company's plans to sell it.
Kent Science Park Given Green Light for Expansion
Kent Science Park has been given a vote of confidence by the Inspector’s Report on the future of Swale providing a framework for the short term and long term expansion of the Park.
Willmott Dixon arrives in Dartford
Contractor Willmott Dixon is bringing dozens of new jobs to Dartford by setting up a new office in Crossways Business Park, near junction 1A of the M25.
£450m vision for homes and employment
Many councillors spoke in favour of the overall scheme for the regeneration of Queenborough and Rushenden, although they were concerned about exact details.
£200 million Dartford masterplan
A £200 million masterplan has been announced to transform the town centre after a previous scheme was rejected by the government.
'Vibrant' plans for the town
A proposed multipurpose town centre development will make Ashford a "vibrant, attractive place to live and work" according to borough councillor Paul Clokie.
MP lauds wonder of green building
A government environment minister has hailed an award-winning ecofriendly Dover conference and training centre as one of the best in the south east.
Easyspace first to boost SMEs in Canterbury
Evans Easyspace, the UK’s leading provider of flexible workspace for small and growing businesses, and Leader of the Council, Councillor John Gilbey, officially launched the construction work on the first Evans Business Centre for Kent on 13 December 2007.
Insurance broker aims to 'instil a culture of excellence'
A Kent-based insurance broker has become the largest operation of its kind to gain special status in a move that aims to boost skills and attract more recruits into the industry.
Financial firm unveils new £5m premises
Afast-growing financial business has opened new offices with space for 250 more people.
New route from Kent airport next summer
Kent Escapes, the holiday charter company operating from Kent International Airport, near Ramsgate, has confirmed its summer break programme will include Palma, Majorca, as well as Las Palmas in the Canary Islands.
Kent businesses 'upbeat' about growth in 2008
Directors and owners of Kent companies are upbeat about future growth despite the recent market turmoil, according to new research.
Ashford receives Government growth area cash
The regeneration plans for Ashford have been given a boost with £22 million of new funding over the next three years by the Department of Communities and Local Government.
Work starts on £11m Medway sports centre
Work has begun on an £11.1m project to turn a sports complex in Gillingham, Kent, into a centre of excellence.
Ashford aims to be fibre-optic broadband pioneer in South East
The ancient county town of Ashford has vowed to offer the most advanced technological infrastructure in the region as it bids to live up to its status as one of the Government’s main growth areas in the South East.
£275 Strategic Economic Investment - Thames Gateway
Communities across the Thames Gateway are to benefit from £275 million of investment to transform the area and deliver local economic sustainability.
Temporary home for Turner gallery
The Turner Contemporary is to move into a temporary base until its permanent £17.5m home is completed.
Council secures £40m for transport schemes
Almost £40million has been secured by Medway Council from the government to improve transport in Medway over the next three years.
Light Brothers expands
Waste and recycling processing specialist MDJ Light Brothers has more than doubled staff as part of expanding its office equipment processing service at the Aylesford site
New man in charge at Kent Science Park
Kent Science Park has a new boss. James Speck, 56, will head up the team at the hi-tech Sittingbourne complex as it enters a new phase in its development.
Model shows scale of big development
KENT Science Park will house a revealing model, showing the scale of Swale's involvement in Thames Gateway.
Lord Lieutenant of Kent opens law firm’s prestigious new offices
Lord Lieutenant of Kent Allan Willett CMG officially opened prestigious new offices for leading south east law firm Furley Page LLP at one of the most historic parts of the Thames Gateway region.
Crest Nicholson takes Medway regeneration
Crest Nicholson and BioRegional Quintain have been named as developers of the first phase of the £100m Rochester Riverside regeneration.
Tour De France Success for Kent - It's official
Independent research has revealed the visit of the Tour de France this summer was a great investment by Transport for London, Kent County Council (KCC) and its partners.
Rochester Riverside - Developer selected
Crest Nicholson PLC, with green living specialists BioRegional Quintain Ltd, have been selected as the preferred developer for the first 600 homes on flagship regeneration site Rochester Riverside.
New HIV medicine launched by Pfizer
Pfizer’s Celsentri® (maraviroc), an important new HIV medicine and the first new oral class of HIV treatment in more than a decade, has been made available for treatment experienced patients in the UK. Discovered and developed by Pfizer scientists in Sandwich, Kent, maraviroc represents a significant innovation in the treatment of HIV infection. Maraviroc was licensed by the European regulator, the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products (EMEA) in September 2007.
Regeneration bid given £110m cash
Cash for services and infrastructure has been secured from the developers of one of the largest regeneration projects in Europe.
Eurostar Investment - Shows commitment to Ashford
Eurostar has announced that it is spending a further £750,000 on improving facilities at Ashford International, taking the total investment to more than £1.5m. The footbridge linking the car park and check-in gates within the station are to be fully refurbished.
Raising the roof
Early building work on the Singleton Environment Centre in south Ashford, Kent started in spring 2007. Ten months on and construction of the iconic £1.7m centre, set to be an environmental and community resource and visitor attraction, is on track to open this spring.
Further investment at Kent International Airport
Five new forklift trucks have rolled into action at Kent International Airport in Thanet, marking a further £250,000 investment in its freight handling operation.
Igma Imaging signs up to Charles Park, Crossways
Space Property and Legal & General, advised by M3 Agency, Edwin Hill and Colliers CRE, have now let nine units at Charles Park, their industrial scheme at Crossways Business Park in Dartford, Kent and have a further five units under offer.
Chinese firms could set up at Kent business park
Chinese high-tech and assembly firms could move to Kent and create 1,000 jobs as part of ambitious new plans.
Reaching for the sky
At around 100 metres tall, an apartment block featured in a £130m regeneration project would be the tallest building in Gravesend, according to the developer.
Science And Innovation Campus - Professor appointed
The Development of a New Science and Innovation Campus in the South East Moves Forward with the Appointment of Professor Jim Lynch OBE.
Lakesview Enterprise Centre - Opens for business
The new Lakesview Enterprise Centre in Hersden, with 14 units available for start up and fledgling businesses to rent, officially opens today (23 November).
Top award honour for Kent pair
Two Kent bosses have scooped top awards.
Margate Development - Partners sought
Developers are being asked to come forward with plans for an exciting, new commercial development of two major town centre sites as part of the renaissance of the coastal town of Margate.
Universities helping to address regeneration needs
Canterbury Christ Church University, the University of Greenwich and the University of Kent, who already work together as the Universities at Medway, are joining forces to address the regeneration needs of Swale.
'Lives will be changed by £100m Ebbsfleet station'
Ebbsfleet International Station will “transform” the lives of people travelling from Kent into Europe.
Work has begun on the £80million Thanet Earth development
Work has begun on building the £80million Thanet Earth development which will be used to grow tomatoes, red peppers and cucumbers for Britain's supermarkets.
Residents shown island homes plan
People on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent are getting their first look at plans to build 2,000 new homes.
£180m Thames Gateway railway station opens
Ebbsfleet International station opens to the public this morning (19 November).
Kent jobs boosted by Locate in Kent
More than 1,500 jobs are set to be created in Kent as a result of work this year by the county’s investment promotion agency Locate in Kent.
St Pancras Opening - High speed age for Kent
The launch of new international Eurostar services from St Pancras International station today (November 14), will herald the start of the UK’s first high-speed railway, High Speed 1, and will bring faster European and domestic train services from Kent a step closer.
Directline Structures Ltd - Expanding Ashford HQ
Family-owned construction company Directline Structures Ltd is expanding by building new headquarters in Ashford and creating an additional 11 new jobs in the county over the next three years. The company was awarded a £100,000 grant as part of the Selective Finance for Investment in England (SFIE) grant scheme by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).
Giant wind farm plan gets closer
Plans for a giant wind turbine farm off the Thanet coast have come a step closer after the Government confirmed it can be plugged into the National Grid.
Furley Page Solicitors gains top recognition in legal guides
Furley Page Solicitors based in Canterbury, Whitstable and Medway is ranked as one of the best in the south by two highly regarded and independent national legal guides, further endorsing its expertise and commitment to growing its business.
Business Innovation Investment Of £1.9m - Thanet
Today work is set to begin on a £1.9million cutting edge innovation centre for new businesses on the site of the Marlowe Academy in Ramsgate.
Survey reveals support for new routes from London Ashford Airport (Lydd)
Hundreds of residents and business leaders have voiced their support for the introduction of new air travel services from London Ashford Airport (LAA) at Lydd, Kent.
Opening of St Pancras International brings High-Speed Domestic Services one step closer for Ashford
The official opening of St Pancras International station by Her Majesty the Queen and the launch of High Speed 1, the UK’s first high-speed railway, brings the reality of high-speed domestic services to and from London in 37 minutes one step closer for Ashford.
Kent Science Park sets Gold Standard for Innovation
It has been a record-breaking year for Kent Science Park companies at this year’s British Invention Show, lifting seven of the 34 awards on offer.
Queen opens new £800m St Pancras
The Queen has opened a transformed St Pancras station and new Channel Tunnel rail terminal for Eurostar.
PARTEC - German company sets up Kent office
PARTEC, a German company which specialises in measuring devices for the life sciences sector, has opened an office in Kent, with the help of investment promotion agency, Locate in Kent, SEEDA and UK Trade & Investment Germany.
SearchFlow - Successful search for search service
A company which started in a council flat 25 years ago and is now one of the country’s most successful property search companies is moving its headquarters to one of the most prestigious buildings at Kings Hill near Maidstone.
Agreement signals new phase of homes in growth town of Ashford
Ambitious plans to build 31,000 new homes by 2031 in the Government-designated growth town of Ashford in Kent have come a step closer thanks to a developer contribution agreement by Ashford Borough Council and developers Persimmon and George Wimpey.
60,000 tune into KCC's television channel
A contraversial £1.4million internet TV service launched by Kent County Council has attracted close to 60,000 visits since its launch.
Skills academy to create thousands of jobs
Kent is home to the first construction skills academy in the south east.
Regeneration 'providing major boost to county'
Kent's long and medium term prospects are in excellent shape, according to an important economic report.
Controversial Dartford regeneration plans revived
St James Securities is resurrecting its controversial regeneration plans for Dartford, Kent, 15 months after they wre rejected by the secretary of state.
Science Park plans further growth
The importance of Kent Science Park to the county’s economic prosperity looks set to rise following news that planning permission is being sought for the construction of further high-tech buildings at the Park, near Sittingbourne.
Cabot Financial wins human resources award
Cabot Financial, market leader in consumer debt purchase in the UK and Europe, has been recognised for its strength in human resources, winning the Best HR Department for Reward and Recognition at the Personnel Today awards. In addition, the company was shortlisted for Best Small HR Department, for firms representing up to 499 staff.
Elwick Road Development - Partners sought
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) is to seek expressions of interest from developers and investors for the development of its Elwick Road site located within in Ashford Town Centre.
Junction improvements help put Ashford on the road to success
The fastest growing town between London and the Continent has received a boost with the completion of a £7m scheme to ease traffic congestion and improve road safety at M20 Junction 10 in Ashford, Kent.
New Turner gallery plans welcomed
Widespread approval has greeted the redrawn designs for a new £17.5m art gallery in a Kent seaside town.
Paving the way to develop business links in Kent and Europe
The language of business was translated at a breakfast meeting in France.
French design company moves to Kent
Lille-based Mediama, creator and manufacturer of indoor and outdoor billboard products, has chosen Tonbridge, Kent, as the location for its UK operations.
Perfectly positioned
The Channel Corridor town of Ashford, in Kent, is now beginning to realise its business potential after years of meticulous planning, thanks to an ambitious £650m investment programme.
Locate in Kent - Spending Review and Pre-Budget Report
Locate in Kent welcomes the Chancellor’s announcement to review several pieces of legislation which would aid economic development and investment in Kent.
Business is booming in channel corridor town of Ashford
That’s the opinion of Ashford Borough Council’s Economic Development Manager Andrew Osborne, following news that several new companies are relocating to Ashford and three local firms have made it into the top 50 fastest growing companies in Kent.
New study underlines economic case for development of London Ashford Airport (Lydd)
A new study has produced compelling evidence that the development of London Ashford Airport will succeed in regenerating a stagnant local economy, create hundreds of jobs, provide long-term training opportunities for young people and have a positive impact on the tourism industry in the region.
Firm Foundations for Tech Jobs
Kent Science Park’s attractiveness to high tech businesses has been given a boost following the start of work on the first new building to be built at the Park in more than a decade.
Early opening for Ramada Encore
Twenty full-time jobs are being created by Medway's newest hotel, which opens next month.
First bullet train shoots into Kent
Kent's first bullet train has glided slowly into the county, the first of many that will transform Kent rail travel.
£5.5m business centre on campus
A £5.5m project to build an innovation centre for technology-based business in Kent has been given planning consent.
Japanese bullet train on display
A Japanese-style bullet train which will play a key part in the 2012 London Olympics has been shown off in Kent.
Universities praised for boosting Medway's regeneration
The Universities at Medway campus has been rewarded for the part it has played in the region's economic and cultural life.
£80m project provides huge jobs boost
More than 550 jobs will be created when a Kent-based company teams up with specialist large-scale growers of fruit and vegetables.
Course engineers staff for US firm
EXECUTIVES from an American firm have praised a degree course in electrical engineering at a Kent
university.
university.
Growth Spurt
BUSINESS in the South East is growing at the fastest rate in a decade, according to a new survey.
Creative Margate in country’s top 20
Margate is one of the UK’s top 20 creative towns, according to a survey carried out by a leading marketing group.
Chinese dignitaries to visit Medway
The bond between Medway and a district in China will be strengthened with a visit from six dignitaries.
Sailing ahead with revamp
A £190 million development plan for a 27 acre historic dockyard site has been proposed.
Greener Heating For Kent
Kent could be home to the UK's first large scale community heating schemes following a successful initial feasibility study carried out by developers of the proposed cleaner coal units at E.ON UK's Kingsnorth Power Station.
Towns with a wealthy lifestyle on the cheap
They have successful schools, fancy restaurants and shops, impressive cultural attractions and, surprisingly, affordable houses. They are the 20 British towns and cities where buyers can secure the trappings of a middle-class lifestyle at bargain prices.
Cabot Financial group doubles office space with move to new building
Cabot Financial Group, market leader in debt purchase, has moved to new headquaters more than doubling its office space and improving the working environment for staff while creating capacity for further growth.
First outing for faster Eurostar
Eurostar is set to make its inaugural journey from Paris to London via a new 186mph (300km/h) high-speed UK line.
University's £27m building project is a 'huge step'
Work has started on a £27 million postgraduate college at the University of Kent.
Kent Thameside Regeneration - 30,000 homes, 50,000 jobs
Find out about one of the largest and most exciting regeneration projects in Europe, Kent Thameside, at the next public meeting of Kent Council Council’s Dartford Local Board on Wednesday 12 September at 6.30pm for 7pm start at Swanscombe and Greenhithe Town Council offices, The Grove, Swanscombe, DA10 0GA.
Kent firm's hi-tech helmet deal worth £75m
BAE Systems in Rochester has been awarded a £75 million contract to supply helmets for fighter jets.
Creativity key to Old Town plans
An "innovative" piece of public art is being sought to help open up a Kent seaside resort's Old Town area.
Japanese bullet train docks in UK
The first Japanese bullet train has arrived in Britain, bringing with it promises of shorter journey times and new standards of comfort.
University climbs national league table
Canterbury Christ Church University has risen 11 places in this year's Good University Guide.
US company opens premises in Kent
A Kent business centre is celebrating after attracting a new tenant.
Call Centre Expo - Locate in Kent
Locate in Kent will be promoting the advantages of Kent as a business location to call centre operators at Call Centre Expo, the UK’s largest exhibition for the industry, at the NEC on 26-27 September.
Swale Business Awards - Double success for Science Park
It was a case of ‘double top’ for Kent Science Park when two of the companies based at what has been described as ‘the jewel of Thames Gateway’ walked off with two of the top prizes in the ‘2007 Swale Business Awards’.
Developers shortlisted for Margate seaside development
Kent County Council and Thanet District Council have shortlisted four developers for the mixed-use development on Margate seafront, which is expected to help secure the famous resort's comeback as the first choice seaside destination in the south east.
Partners Establish Key Plan For Transport Infrastructure In Kent Thameside
Cabinets of Dartford Borough Council and Gravesham Borough Council have met to approve an innovative solution to support new transport infrastructure in the area. This will enable the building of over six thousand new homes at Eastern Quarry, as part of Land Securities' flagship Ebbsfleet Valley development in Kent Thameside.
West Kent Partnership - Thumbs up for £1.8m funding
Farmers, rural businesses and communities in West Kent could benefit from up to £1.8million in support in the next five years after the South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA) gave the thumbs up to the first stage of a funding bid by The West Kent Partnership.
Medway eyes hotel scheme in river regeneration
Details of a major part of the regeneration of the River Medway have been released.
Dover Ferry Traffic - Growth in all areas
More passengers, cars, coaches and lorries passed through the Port of Dover in the first six months of 2007 than 2006.
'Lend a hand and help county attract more investment'
Developers are not paying enough to promote Kent as a great place to do business, according to Kent County Council leader Paul Carter.
County to get Olympic ‘boost’
A project has been launched to help regenerate Kent and develop the economy in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics.
New grant money available for Kent businesses
New criteria announced last week by the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform for a business grant scheme to be delivered by SEEDA in the South East region, could benefit many Kent and Medway businesses looking for financial assistance to help fund expansion plans.
Rochester Riverside Regeneration - Preferred developers approved
Striking images of the future have been released by the company selected to develop the hotel and commercial quarter of flagship regeneration site Rochester Riverside
Foundations in place for first fee free degree
Fee free Degrees are on the horizon for students who sign-up to train and become laboratory scientists thanks to the Kent Science Resource Centre (KSRC), a new educational facility being established in Swale.
NIC Instruments Expansion - Folkestone
NIC Instruments has announced that it is expanding its operation in Folkestone, Kent with the help of Locate in Kent and the South East Grant Advisory Service (Se-gas).
Eurostar's Ebbsfleet tickets now on sale
Tickets for the first Eurostar trains from Ebbsfleet International went on sale on Tuesday 24 July.
Cabot Financial Limited - Double celebrations
There are double celebrations for Kings Hill-based finance group Cabot Financial Limited – new offices and two top business awards.
Locate in Kent celebrates 10 years of success
Locate in Kent has celebrated its tenth birthday with an event to highlight a decade of achievement.
Bus scheme wins transport award
A north Kent regeneration project has scooped a prize at the National Transport Awards in London.
Boost for Sittingbourne business
A team from Locate in Kent has been to inspect progress on Watermark, the new commercial development near Sittingbourne, which will cement Swale’s reputation as the booming business area for north Kent, being part of the Thames Gateway.
All aboard for Ashford
A fortune is being spent regenerating this town but is local property a good bet, asks Fred Redwood
Lottery cash for docks museums
Purcell Miller Tritton and van Heyningen & Haward Architects have secured £5 million worth of Heritage Lottery funding to turn a grade II listed building in Chatham into a gallery and storage area for marine collections
Shared university site expanding
A unique "multiversity" higher education project is expanding again with another new building being opened.
McAslan launches Canterbury regeneration scheme
John McAslan and Partners has unveiled its proposals to redevelop the rundown 10ha Wincheap estate on the edge of Canterbury, Kent.
Hotspots created as Londoners flood in
New property hotspots are being created across the county as the well off turn their backs on London for a better lifestyle.
Groundbreaking trade deal with South Korea
Closer links between Kent and the Far East have been forged by a trade pact with South Korea.
Expansion for Furley Page as it opens Thames Gateway office
Prestigious new offices based in one of the most historic parts of the Thames Gateway region have been opened by leading south east law firm Furley Page LLP.
Joy at U-turn over food factory closure
Hundreds of jobs have been saved at Ashford's Batchelors factory following a shock announcement from Premier Foods.
Northdown Business Park - Boost for Ashford
The growing reputation of Ashford in Kent as a prime location for leading national and international companies has been given another boost, following completion of the first phase of a major new business park development.
New business park helps deliver growth for Ashford
The growing reputation of Ashford in Kent as a prime location for leading national and international companies has been given another boost, following completion of the first phase of a major new business park development.
Maritime’s Merits Land Award
Chatham Maritime Trust, the organisation which oversees large parts of the former Chatham Naval Dockyard, is a winner in the fifth annual RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Property Management Awards.
Saga and AA in £6bn merger
The Kent-based company Saga, which sells holidays and other products to the over-50s, is to merge with motoring organisation AA in a deal valuing the combined firm at £6.15bn.
Work on schedule for Pleasurama site
Work on a major leisure and retail development on the Pleasurama site on Ramsgate seafront is to begin this autumn.
New £50m hotels boost for Medway regeneration
The regeneration of the Medway Towns has taken another giant step forward with the announcement that 500 new hotel rooms are to be built in five separate projects.
A world class vision for Dover
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strengthen links between the town of Dover and its port - symbolized by an internationally-recognised modern iconic structure - has been unveiled.
Homes the key to growth
Kent property experts RPC Land and New Homes has echoed calls from the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) highlighting the need for more houses to be built if the region is to continue to be economically stable and environmentally sustainable.
Eurostar launches ebbsfleet international and goes head-to-head with south east airports
Eurostar, the high-speed passenger train operator that links the UK with the Continent, today announced that Ebbsfleet International station will open to travellers on Monday 19 November.
Huge boost as magnate makes jobs pledge
Rice is poised to create hundreds of new jobs in Medway.
Eurostar strikes local rail deal
Cross-Channel rail passengers will have free travel on local railway services in Kent when the new Ebbsfleet International Station opens.
Architect unveils gallery design
New plans for an art gallery in Kent have been unveiled after the cost of previous designs rose to £50m.
Kent on track for a high-speed boom
A new fast rail link through the county will transform the more inaccessible parts of the Garden of England
Housing demand in Ashford set to rocket as high-speed rail service slashes London commute to 37 minutes
The ancient market town of Ashford in Kent is set to become a major property hotspot as more and more commuters turn their backs on London in search of a better lifestyle, according to new research out this week.
Locate in Kent celebrates a decade of Kent investment
Locate in Kent will celebrate 10 years of business investment in the county at a special networking event on July 17 at The Orangery, Turkey Mill, Maidstone.
Chatham bids for Unesco title
A bid to achieve world heritage status for Chatham Dockyard in Kent will be launched on Thursday next week.
Cash boost brings new M20 junction step nearer
BOROUGH councillors have welcomed the progress made on plans for a new motorway junction to take the strain off Junction 10 at Ashford.
Adam to lead Kent’s environment and regeneration challenge
Adam Wilkinson is looking forward to the challenge as Kent County Council’s new Managing Director of Environment and Regeneration.
Environmental company makes a home in Kent
Brightwater Environmental, a new start-up business specialising in water and energy saving solutions, has set up in Kent.
Expanding university department creates new jobs
Science at one of Medway's universities is expanding and six new jobs have been created.
Thames Gateway Kent Appointment
The drive to improve the environment of Thames Gateway Kent has been given further impetus with the announcement of a senior appointment.
BIG Plans for Flying Start
It’s chocks away for Flying Start’s bid to celebrate the pioneering spirit of the founding fathers of aviation with the creation of an iconic, energy efficient building on the Isle of Sheppey.
Le Tour And Kent Businesses - Window of opportunity
With little more than a month to go before the Tour de France descends on Kent, the county’s business community is being urged to make sure they have their plans in place for the big day: Sunday, 8 July.
Rival universities 'full paddle' for first alternative boat race
Rowing crews from the Universities of Kent and Greenwich fiercely competed for the Medway Boat Race – the first ‘alternative’ boat race sponsored by leading South East law firm Furley Page LLP.
High spec office development begins in Kent
Work has started on the first phase of Watermark Kent, the prestigious office development fronting the A249 at Sittingbourne. The 18 acre site was acquired by joint ventures Highcross and Cantium Developments in October 2006.
Dickens theme park open to public
The £62m theme park that celebrates the life and writings of Charles Dickens has opened after a six-week delay.
Envirogroup expands Kent operations
Biodiesel manufacturer, Envirogroup, is expanding its operations in Kent with the help of investment promotion agency, Locate In Kent.
5,000 homes on bomb training site
An Army site currently used for bomb disposal work is being sold so 5,000 new homes can be built in Medway.
Free Bank Holiday Fun for all the family as Fowlmead Country Park opens for the first time
A new country park and nature reserve in Kent opens to the public for the first time with a celebration weekend on Sunday, 27 May and Bank Holiday Monday, 28 May with free entry for everyone.
Promoting Kent In Europe - Locate in Kent
Investment promotion agency Locate in Kent is continuing to promote the county with a series of seminars aimed at North-West European companies looking to set up or expand in the UK.
Ambitions set out for Medway town
Development plans have been put forward setting out "broad ambitions" for three sites in Chatham.
Kent site to be hub for Chinese technology
A small corner of rural Kent is to be transformed into an international hub for the Chinese technology industry under a deal unveiled yesterday by a London-listed property group.
Ashford Learning Campus wins planning approval as investment in education helps drive the growth town of Kent
The granting of planning approval for the £55m Ashford Learning Campus has been hailed as a major landmark in the development of the fastest growing town between London and Continental Europe. Up to 14,000 students are expected through the doors when the Learning Campus opens in September 2009.
MP hails 'big step forward' for public transport
A combined rail-bus ticket has been launched for a series of destinations across Kent and Sussex.
Green light given for 1,000 new homes
Plans to build 1,000 new homes in the county have been given the go ahead by the Government Office for the South East (GOSE).
£8.6m bus bridge nearly complete
Construction of a bridge passing under the Dartford bridge and over the river crossing's toll plaza to expand a hi-tech bus scheme is nearing its end.
Public transport investment boost for Ashford
Ashford's future public transport plans have received a boost with news that the Government has agreed to invest in transport priority schemes recommended by the South East England Regional Transport Board.
Folkestone Enterprise Centre - 5th Anniversary Celebrations
At the lunchtime celebrations on 11 May organised by Basepoint, operators of the Folkestone Enterprise Centre, Peter Hobbs, Chief Executive of Channel Chamber spoke of the Enterprise Centre’s success in attracting new businesses to Folkestone during the past five years:
Major makeover for Dover
The multi million pound regeneration of Dover Town Centre continues to gather pace after the acquisition and hand over of the Russell Street bus depot for demolition.
Furley Page solicitors make a splash with 'alternative' boat race
To mark the opening of its new Thames Gateway office, leading South East law firm Furley Page is sponsoring the first ‘alternative’ university boat race to be held on the River Medway.
New law business creates 70 jobs
Maidstone-based asb law has set up a separate operation to specialise in high-volume work such as residential conveyancing, re-mortgaging, personal injury and uninsured loss recovery.
One step ahead
Ashford in Kent is leading the way when it comes to studying the environmental impact of its growth plans.
‘Growth town' Ashford on its way to 28,000 jobs target
New figures out this week show that £650 million investment plans to transform Ashford in Kent are beginning to pay dividends. Latest findings from the Annual Business Inquiry* (ABI) show that 3,100 jobs were created in Ashford between 2001 and 2005.
ITRM; Winners of the Computer Weekly – ‘Best Places to Work in IT’ Award
ITRM Ltd, Sidcup's rapidly growing IT Services Company, was short-listed for the prestigious;Best Places to work in IT; award for Computer Weekly for the fourth year running.
GoResponse, Outsourced UK Call Centre Service Provider – Finalists of the National Business Awards for the South East Region 2007
GoResponse has been selected as a Finalist for the South East Region for The National Business Awards, sponsored by Orange – also dubbed as, ‘UK’s business Oscars’ by Chancellor Gordon Brown. The category which GoResponse has been short-listed for is the ‘AXA Small to Medium Sized Business of the Year Award 2007’.
Cheaper high-speed rail fares to Europe - train services to rival Eurostar by 2010
A NEW cross-Channel rail service to compete directly with Eurostar could be launched within the next three years.
Chatham Firm takes Pole Position at Monaco
Over-C, a ground-breaking technology firm based in The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, Kent, beat off competition from over 13 countries to win the ‘Best NFC Implementation of the Year 2007’ at the European NFC Developers Summit held at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco this April (18-20).
Transformation Takes Place
In 2001 Ashford was identified as “the growth town of Kent” when the Government included the ancient market town as one of four key growth areas in the South East. Today, a £650m investment programme is helping to support a range of exciting building and infrastructure projects as Ashford begins to realise its potential.
Trade Chief tours Kent Science Park
Kent Science Park’s importance to the success of Thames Gateway has once again been highlighted after the man tasked with leading the country’s efforts to attract new jobs to the UK visited Sittingbourne on a fact-finding mission.
Airport sees return of passenger flights
PASSENGERS are once-again flying from Kent International Airport, Manston.
The Chancellor recognises progression in Kent Thameside
Land Securities today welcomed Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, to Kent Thameside for an overview of the large-scale regeneration underway in the area and to see the positive impact on local employment first hand.
Developer chosen for Wincheap scheme
Canterbury City Council has selected Capital & Counties as its preferred development partner for the regeneration of the Wincheap estate.
SEEDA Appointment - Inward Investment Director
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and UK Trade & Investment South East are pleased to announce the appointment of John Rutherford as its new Inward Investment Director. John will lead on attracting overseas companies to locate and expand operations in the region and will be part of the joint SEEDA/UKTI International Business Team. The South East is the first region to merge support for trade and inward investment in one team reflecting a commitment to provide a joined-up service to all business customers.
Kent Science Park hosts new Life Science Training Facility
The Kent Science Resource Centre, a new educational facility, will significantly improve the skills and training opportunities for students eager to enter the world of bioscience, research and technology.
Medway Innovation Centre launch of phase one
Phase One of the Medway Innovation Centre (MIC) – which provides state-of-the-art facilities for start-up technology companies – was officially launched today by Cllr Jane Chitty, Portfolio Holder for Strategic development and Economic Growth.
Budget could boost foreign investment in the county
Budget could boost foreign investment in the county
Shepway Economic Regeneration Partnership - Sharing in success
Key figures in Shepway’s Economic Regeneration Partnership (SERP) have given a ‘thumbs up’ to the new District-wide Community Plan entitled ‘Sharing in Success’.
Kent’s High Sheriff is new chairman of Kent Tourism Alliance
As Kent’s High Sherriff Amanda Cottrell retires this month from a busy and very successful year in office, she takes up a new post as chairman of Kent Tourism Alliance – the private and public partnership which promotes the county’s £1.8 billion tourist industry. She succeeds current chairman Brent Pollard.
New 'city' to be created as part of £6 billion Medway
A landmark multi-million pound partnership announced between Medway Council and St Mowden Properties is set to bring massive investment to the Medway area of the Thames Gateway.
Gateway Chief backs Gravesend development
The chief executive of Thames Gateway Judith Armitt has had a preview of the £100million Heritage Quarter regeneration scheme in Gravesend.
Armitt sets out case for greater private investment in Thames Gateway
Thames Gateway Chief Executive Judith Armitt set out her case for greater private investment in the Thames Gateway programme at the MIPIM international property summit today.
Gateway to England 'transformed'
A multi-million pound makeover that will transform the first glimpse of England for millions of ferry passengers has been given the go-ahead.
Corner of UK with a strong French accent
It may be better known as the Thames Gateway or the garden of England, but development agencies are seeking a new identity for England's south-east corner as part of a Franco-British commercial area.
Riverside development plans
Northfleet is set to receive 1,800 homes and a new school after cement works shut in 2008.
£100m AGREEMENT FOR GRAVESHAM DEVELOPMENT
A major regeneration project for Gravesend town centre's Heritage Quarter is a step closer following the exchange of a £100 million development agreement between Edinburgh House Estates Ltd and Gravesham Borough Council.
B737 jet trail at London Ashford Airport
London Ashford Airport (LAA) has hailed as “a great success” a series of take-off and landing trials involving a chartered B737-300 jet at Lydd.
Hi-tech bus network set to expand
Construction of the next section of a bus priority scheme starts next month after Kent County Council announced the award of a £4.2m contract.
Medway picks St Modwen for £1bn Kent regeneration
St Modwen has been selected by Medway Council as its partner to carry out £1bn of development within the Kent unitary authority. The Town Centre regeneration specialist will be the investment partner to a 15-year programme to transform Medway into one of the key locations in the Thames Gateway, with Chatham at its heart.
Folkestone’s first university gets underway
Higher education in Folkestone becomes available for the first
time on Saturday.
time on Saturday.
Medway Gateway Business Centre - Chatham Historic Dockyard
Creative and design-led businesses in Kent will have the opportunity to locate to a refurbished workshop dating from the 18th Century, now that the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) has secured planning approval and Scheduled Ancient Monument consent.
More Deals at Stirling Park, Rochester
Easter Group and IPIF has sold four warehouse units, and let another, at Stirling Park, Rochester, Kent. A further six units are under offer and in solicitors' hands. Freehold units have achieved prices between £105-£110 per sq ft and £7 per sq ft for lettings.
Park Nets New Tenant
Kent Science Park, near Sittingbourne, has welcomed its latest tenant onto the site – internet monitoring bureau UKNetMonitor.
200 jobs to be created in Isle of Sheppey development
Two hundred new jobs have been secured at Queenborough and Rushenden on the Isle of Sheppey.
LandSec agrees Ebbsfleet optical fibre deal
Land Securities has announced a deal with British Telecommunications (BT) and British Sky Broadcasting (Sky) to provide services to the company's Ebbsfleet Valley development.
Centre to train Gateway builders
More than £2m is to be spent on facilities to train people for building and engineering jobs in the Thames Gateway in Kent.
Development boost for Gravesham’s Heritage Quarter regeneration
A major regeneration project for Gravesend town centre has taken a step closer following the exchange of a £100m Development Agreement between Edinburgh House Estates Ltd and Gravesham Borough Council.
Record breaking year for Kings Hill
Kings Hill is celebrating its best ever year having completed property deals on over 190,000 sq ft of office and retail space.
Kent Year of Innovation - University of Kent
The University of Kent continues to stimulate innovation and enterprise with the launch of Kent Year of Innovation, an initiative supported by Kent County Council (KCC).
Pentagon Purchased in Major Property Deal
In what is being heralded as a major vote of confidence in Medway's commercial and cultural future, a deal to acquire the Pentagon Centre in Chatham has been completed today (12 February, 2007) by Irish investors.
Dreamland plans 'a blank canvas'
The owner of Margate's Dreamland funfair has begun a public consultation on plans to build shops, homes and business premises on the site.
Exciting Future for Buckland Mill as Gillcrest and SEEDA Submits Planning Application
The regeneration of a former paper manufacturing plant at Buckland Mill in Dover, Kent, is another step closer now that developer Gillcrest Homes and the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) have submitted a planning application for a vibrant, mixed-use development at the site.
A TOWN FOR TOMORROW
Tunbridge Wells is on the brink of a multi-million pound transformation aimed at revitalising the town centre and changing the lives of the thousands of people who live and work there.
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