News
Eurostar celebrates first anniversary ‘double doorway’ in Kent
Eurostar, the high-speed passenger train operator that links the UK with France and Belgium, today celebrates the first anniversary of operating twin stations in Kent, offering a double doorway from south east England to the Continent.
GML Construction builds on success with new headquarters
Building contractor and developer, GML Construction has relocated from Horsmonden near Tunbridge Wells to new self-built headquarters in Coxheath, near Maidstone.
Cabot Financial man the phones for children in need
Cabot Financial Group were selected as the official call centre for BBC Southern Counties Radio, in this year’s Children in Need appeal. Staff volunteers took donations from around 5000 people from Friday 14th November until the early hours of Saturday morning.
Top recognition for Furley Page lawyers in national legal guide
Two lawyers from leading regional law firm Furley Page, which has offices in Kent and Thames Gateway, have been singled out by highly regarded independent national legal guide Chambers UK.
Creative help to give new awards scheme a distinctive look
Kent's creative companies are working hard to support the county’s newest awards scheme, the Kent Excellence in Business Awards (KEiBA).
Thrive with the KOS Media £1m Business Challenge
Thrive not just survive – that’s the message as a huge blast of fresh air blew through Kent’s business scene this week when KOS Media’s £1 million challenge swept away some of the gloom over the local economy.
Derelict cinema to be demolished
Permission for a new development on the derelict site of a cinema in Kent has been approved by planners.
Kent Army Site Plan Boost to Jobs
Plans to build 500 new homes on the site of a former army barracks in Kent will help create jobs and keep youngsters in the town.
Overseas Opportunities For Kent Businesses - University of Kent
A trade mission from south-west Virginia arrived at the University of Kent on Monday 3 November, as part of an international Reciprocal Soft-Landings Network project.
Space Business Centre Medway makes quick progress
Since arriving on site in August 2008 Space Business Centres has made rapid progress on the construction of its serviced business unit scheme at Knight Road, Rochester. Once completed, the site, formerly the Sheridale Business Centre, will become home to a brand new development of 51 small business units ranging from 350 – 776 sq ft.
Tesco expansion plans will bring jobs to Sheppey
Plans to expand the Tesco store in Sheerness have been announced which could create up to 110 new full and part-time jobs – giving the local economy a major boost.
Millions could change port's transport forever
Dover’s transport system could be in for a multi-million-pound transformation after the South East Regional Transport Board showed support for the town’s Growth Point bid.
Comedian, headteacher and former ambassador to run Turner Centre
A stand-up comedian from Birmingham, the headteacher of a leading public school and a former ambassador and foreign policy adviser to Tony Blair are to join a 14-strong board that will run the £17million Turner Centre in Margate.
Plan to extend £16bn rail route
The £16bn Crossrail project to build a 74-mile rail network across London could now be extended to north Kent.
SEEDA meets tough economic times with long term
Businesses in the South East, which are being hit by the first ever global financial crisis, can start preparing now to take advantage of the opportunities which will appear when the upturn arrives, said Pam Alexander, SEEDA Chief Executive, at SEEDA's Annual Open Public Meeting.
Blaze failed to damage Channel Tunnel traffic volumes
Eurotunnel carried more traffic than expected in October despite restricted services caused by fire damage.
Excellent year for Kings Hill - completed property deals
Kings Hill is celebrating one of its best years ever, having completed property deals on 156,000 sq ft of office space in the first six months of 2008.
Are you ready to enter Kent's own Dragon's Den?
Excellence in business is to be rewarded in an exciting new competition that aims to find Kent's very own "Dragons."
150 jobs up for grabs after £20m store revamp
About 150 new jobs are to be created with the creation of a food hall at the flagship John Lewis store at Bluewater.
High speed rail base secures jobs
The decision to house and service the new high speed rail link trains at more than one Kent location has guaranteed 160 jobs, Southeastern said.
Business Location Study - Ashford
Ashford’s Future has welcomed the results of a new study which shows that the Channel Corridor growth town is considered to be a top business location.
Magic carpet to be rolled out as Disney chose Dover
Dover Cruise Port is to host Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever foray into Northern Europe.
Kent perceived as a top business location
A new study ‘Perceptions of Kent as a Business Location 2008’ commissioned by investment promotion agency Locate in Kent, has revealed that almost half (44%) of respondents rated Kent as a better business location than any other area in the UK.
Developer plans to build more offices
Developer Quadrant Estates has applied for planning permission to build a second phase of its offices at Eureka Park in Ashford - and has secured the first occupier for the new buildings.
Land Securities Trillium scoops £600m schools contract
Land Securities Trillium has been officially appointed for the first phase of the £600m Building Schools for the Future programme in Kent.
Cabot Financial win ‘Debt Purchaser of the Year’ Award
Cabot Financial Group, market leader in debt purchase, has been named ‘Debt Purchaser of the Year’ at the second annual Debt Collection Agency Awards in recognition of its achievements in the debt purchase industry.
Calls for Government to do more for Kent small businesses
The Government has not gone far enough to help small businesses through the financial crisis, according to a Kent boss.
Timing of projects could be altered to boost jobs
Public sector works could be brought forward in Kent to boost jobs in the present financial crisis.
Kent Property Market Report gives positive outlook for the future
This year’s Kent Property Market Report, unveiled at Brands Hatch MotorSport Vision Centre today (22 October), reveals that despite the current economic downturn, the Kent property market showed a steady performance in 2007/08.
Kent's firms are among the UK's top
Kent produce suppliers and insurers are highlighted in a league table of Britain's top medium-sized companies.
Brown and Mandelson come to Kent
Prime Minister Gordon Brown and business secretary Peter Mandelson paid a surprise visit to Kent today to unveil a multi-million pound package of help for small firms.
New business support centre opens in Dartford
Wincor Nixdorf is to open a prestige new business support centre in Dartford.
Systems Mechanics moves to larger offices in Whitstable, Kent, UK as the company’s business expansion continues
Consistent year-on-year growth of the business, combined with enhanced products and services to telecoms providers, are contributing to the success of Systems Mechanics.
Kent's county town and business capital
Maidstone is the administrative and commercial centre of Kent. It is also the county town. Yet Maidstone's excellent location and communications links, coupled to a readily available supply of quality office space mean that it's true potential remains untapped.
New managing director at London Ashford Airport (Lydd), Kent
London Ashford Airport has announced the appointment of Air Marshal Clifford Spink CB CBE FCMI FRAeS as its new Managing Director. He replaces MrZaher Deir, who stepped down at the end of September.
Call centre top for customer service
A Kent call centre has been picked as one of the best in the UK in a customer service competition.
Kent Science Park Seals Deal With Perfect Fusion
A cutting edge company, which has found itself in the right place at the right time thanks to the growing global demand for oil, gas and petrochemicals, has relocated to new premises at Kent Science Park.
China Gateway gets go-ahead
The first phase of one of the most contentious developments ever proposed for Thanet has been approved by the local authority.
Growth town Ashford leads the UK in completing ecological footprints study
An assessment of Ashford’s predicted ecological footprint has been completed as the growth town aims to double in size within 25 years. Ashford is the only government-designated growth area in the UK to have conducted a study to quantify the environmental impacts of its expansion and to identify action to reduce these.
Airport in 25-year expansion plan
A 25-year expansion plan which will see traffic levels at Kent International Airport increased has been unveiled.
Kent passes the Marketest
Marketest, the new UK branch of Lille-based online market research company, Créatests, has opened its first international office at The Nucleus, Dartford, with assistance from Locate in Kent and the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).
What makes Kent a great place to setup your business?
Kent TV speaks to Locate in Kent, SEEDA and Business Link to find out why our county has the best facilities.
Property in Kent: Why the French adore Kent
The Telegraph meets the movers who are swapping Provence for the hop gardens of Kent.
Ashford appoints Irene Seijo to deliver green and blue grid strategy
Irene Seijo has been appointed as manager responsible for Ashford’s new ‘Green and Blue’ Strategy. The Strategy aims to create and improve Ashford’s green spaces and waterways, developing an even better network of places that already give Ashford its special quality of life.
Investing In Ashford - On the right track
More than 60 investors, intermediaries and developers attended an exclusive event in London on 25 Sept to find out how they can benefit from investment opportunities in Ashford, the fastest growing town between London and the continent.
Tunnel fire delays service relaunch between Ashford to Brussels
Fire in the Channel Tunnel has delayed the planned return of high-speed rail services between Ashford and Brussels.
Brachers Solicitors rebrands following client and staff consultation
Brachers Solicitors, based in Maidstone, has unveiled a re-brand to the name of Brachers Law as of October 1st.
Wealth management firm plans bright future in the sun
A newly-launched Kent wealth management brand is hoping for a sunny future - as it takes on new staff and opens premises in the Mediterranean.
Population boost keeps Ashford growth plans on track
New figures out this week revealing that Ashford has recorded the biggest population rise in the South East over the past decade is a clear indication that the town is well on its way to realising its ambitious growth plans.
Huge boost for town's Olympic torch bid
The campaign to bring the Olympic torch through Dover in 2012 received a massive boost as thousands celebrated the launch of the Cultural Olympiad.
Business Blooms at Kent Science Park
A Kent Science Park company is the first in the country to receive the endorsement for a plant or soil treatment from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the UK¹s leading gardening organisation.
Scheme set to slash red tape among Kent firms
A new scheme that aims to slash red tape for business is to be trialled in Kent.
Budget hotel plan for Maidstone town centre
A four-storey budget hotel could replace one of the Maidstone council offices now empty after a move to new premises.
Kent university produces top earners
Kent has the some of the best performing graduates in the country.
Kent is on the money for GlobalExpense
The UK’s largest provider of employee expenses services has created more than 35 jobs in Sittingbourne after setting up operations and relocating to Kent Science Park.
Wincor Nixdorf relocate within Dartford
Wincor Nixdorf, advised by Savills, has taken office space at Drake House at Crossways Business Park in Dartford from landlord Barclays.
Kent Property Market report to reveal outlook for 2008/9
The launch of this year’s Kent Property Market Report, to be held at the Brands Hatch Motorsport Vision Conference Centre on Wednesday 22 October, will welcome around 200 leading property experts, developers and investors in Kent and Medway.
Kent Company Gets To Heart of the Matter
The outlook for a Kent company, whose technology can dramatically improve drug safety, aid the discovery of new heart drugs and also reduce reliance of whole animal safety testing, looks very healthy after it announced a collaboration with a major Swedish biotech business.
'Business parks are not dead' says industry
Business parks received a spirited defence from some of the top names in the sector at Offices 08 in Newport.
Investment plan to transform Thames Gateway
A new Economic Development Investment Plan was launched today by the three Regional Development Agencies in the South East of England to transform the Thames Gateway into a thriving business, research and innovation hub and a vibrant place to live.
Property in Kent remaining resilient
The often under-valued county has proved resilient in the property market downturn
Green building gets green light from Council
The construction of a £1.5m building with strong environmental credentials at the heart of its design has been given the green light by Swale Borough Council.
£8m project to create high-tech jobs moves forward
An £8m project designed to create hundreds of hi-tech jobs has taken another step forward with the turn of a screw.
French agency Creatests opens UK office
Online researcher sets up shop in Kent as Marketest.
Kent - most popular place to live in UK
It’s not only TV presenters, comedians and singers that cannot resist the charms of Kent.
Scientists scoop global accolades
Four Kent research chemists who did groundbreaking work on a new HIV medicine have been given world recognition by becoming Heroes of Chemistry.
Major push for Europe's biggest build project
Designer Wayne Hemingway is teaming up with construction firms to reassure investors the biggest regeneration project in Europe will not be derailed by the property slump.
Company set sail for Medway
Medway’s growing importance in the sailing industry has led a Suffolk business to choose the area for its second premises.
University Centre Folkestone appoints new Campus Director
A new Campus Director of the University Centre Folkestone has been appointed.
Dover torch campaign blasts off with more fireworks
A dramatic display of fire and light will illuminate Dover harbour as the town continues its campaign to welcome the Olympic flame to Britain.
Councils spend £600,000 on improving public services
Work is under way on a new £600,000 council scheme to improve public access to services in the Tonbridge community.
Kent County Council - Autumn Cabinet Reshuffle
The Leader of Kent County Council Paul Carter has announced an autumn reshuffle to his Cabinet.
University to get official launch
A university whose graduates include artist Tracey Emin and designers Karen Millen and Zandra Rhodes will have its official opening next week.
Construction firm nets £400m port deal
A Kent-based construction firm landed a £400million contract for the first phase of a giant container port that will create thousands of jobs.
Multi-million pounds complex means hundreds of jobs
A new £10 million office complex heralds the creation of up to 350 jobs.
Theatre's £25.5m revamp approved
The £25.5m redevelopment of a theatre in Canterbury has been granted planning permission by the city council.
Kent printing company, Thanet Press, awarded grant
Thanet Press, one of the top ranking printers in the UK, based in Margate, Kent, has been awarded a grant which will enable the company to build a controlled environment to produce instruction leaflets for the pharmaceutical industry. The company was awarded £236,550 by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) under the Selected Finance for Investment in England (SFIE) grant scheme.
Acquisition means new staff for mobile email firm
New jobs in Kent are forecast by an ambitious email-to-mobile phone technology business after snapping up a similar firm for £2.6million.
Maidstone's Olympic countdown
Free sports, live music and a parade will celebrate the start of the countdown to London 2012 here in Maidstone.
International investment central to economic growth according to Locate in Kent
One year on from the global credit crunch and despite the worsening economic climate Kent is continuing to attract a high level of international investment into the county. Locate in Kent’s foreign direct investment (FDI) figures reveal that international investors created nearly 1,500 jobs between April 2007 and July 2008; an average of 100 jobs a month.
Credit crunch is good new for tourism industry
The credit crunch could mean big money for Kent’s tourism industry as holidaymakers begin to shun foreign destinations.
Waitrose to open new store in Kent
Waitrose, the food shops of the John Lewis Partnership, has confirmed it will open its first shop in Ashford next year after an application was approved by Ashford Borough Council.
Kent students continue to improve A-level achievement
More than 7,000 Kent students received their A-level and equivalent results on 14 August.
Billionaire's son expands his dotcom empire
Saga billionaire Roger De Haan’s son Josh has moved the head office of his dotcom company to Folkestone - the town his father is set on turning into a cultural mecca.
Acorn Recruitment Consultancy Ltd announces remarkable
Acorn Recruitment Consultancy Ltd, a recruitment agency with six offices throughout Northwest
Kent, has had an incredible few months reporting gross profits rising by a substantial 40% based on the previous quarter. This is a fundamental step towards achieving Acorn’s goal of being the premier recruitment agency for office, accountancy and legal vacancies in Kent and East Sussex.
Kent, has had an incredible few months reporting gross profits rising by a substantial 40% based on the previous quarter. This is a fundamental step towards achieving Acorn’s goal of being the premier recruitment agency for office, accountancy and legal vacancies in Kent and East Sussex.
South East Civils wins £9m infrastructure scheme in North Kent.
Birse Civils South East has been awarded a £9.2m contract by Land Securities PLC for a major infrastructure project at their Ebbsfleet Valley development.
Bellway’s Tannery signs Hotel Du Vin
Hotel Du Vin, owned by Marylebone Warwick Balfour, has bought a warehouse site for development at Bellway’s Tannery development in Canterbury.
£3.8m regeneration for coastal town
A cable car from the castle to the sea could form part of a £3.8m regeneration for a Kent coastal town.
Come on board and share in the growing success of Ashford
Developers and investors across the UK are being invited to attend an exclusive event in London next month (September) to find out how they can benefit from investment opportunities in Ashford.
New jobs as Sainsbury's announces Dartford depot
Up to 100 jobs could be created when one of the country's biggest supermarket chains opens a new depot in Dartford.
Planning application to regenerate town
A planning application has been submitted for a regeneration project which includes a 100m tall apartment block.
Backbench revolt over empty rates
A back bench rebellion is growing over the government’s decision to charge full business rates on empty commercial property.
Ocado delivers growth into Kent
Ocado, the delivery service for online Waitrose customers, is expanding its operations in Kent.
Direct Ashford-Brussels Eurostar welcomed by KCC
Eurostar is to bring back a direct service from Ashford International to Brussels later this year.
Building society voted best for ISAs
Kent Reliance Building Society has been named best cash ISA provider.
Eurostar to strengthen links between Ashford and Brussels
Eurostar, the high-speed passenger train operator connecting the UK and mainland Europe, has today announced plans for improved links between Ashford International and Brussels-Midi.
Plans submitted for Gravesend
Edinburgh House Estates has submitted plans for its £150m town centre regeneration project in Gravesend.
Kent Company Helps Create Internet World Leader
Proof that the technologies being developed at Kent Science Park, near Sittingbourne, are world class has been confirmed by Moovera Networks, the award-winning mobile Wi-Fi company, joining forces with Swedish on-train Internet pioneer Icomera.
Kent firm is best in the South East
A Kent property search business has been named top employer in the south east.
Hundreds of jobs at supermarket's new online store
Supermarket giant Tesco is to create 550 jobs at a new dotcom store.
Insurance giant Towergate to buy up IFAs
Maidstone-based insurance giant Towergate Partnership has raised more than £100 million to launch itself into the financial advisory business.
Turner gallery gets £8.1m grant
Millions of pounds have been promised to allow work to get under way on a contemporary art gallery in Kent.
Rephine expands in Kent
Rephine, a UK based consultancy which provides auditing services to international primary and secondary pharmaceutical industries, has expanded its business in Canterbury. The company has moved to new offices and will benefit from funding from a venture capital firm to ensure its future growth.
Demand for Scheduled Services
There is great demand for commercial passenger flights from Kent International Airport, near Ramsgate, according to a survey completed by nearly 11,000 local residents.
Stanhope wins battle to develop Ashford Channel Tunnel site
Stanhope has been selected to develop a 550,000 sq ft mixed-use scheme in Kent.
Wind farm rescued by energy giants
Two giant energy firms have rescued the proposed London Array wind farm set to be built off the Thanet coast.
Big profits for Abbott Laboratories
Abbot Laboratories beat Wall Street expectations when it announced second quarter profits, it has been reported.
KCC heaps praise on Brussels operation
Kent's push into mainland Europe over the past 21 years has netted an estimated £250 million for the county, with a further £100 million expected by 2013, according to council chiefs.
Lucrative communications deal for Kent firm
Sending emails to mobile phones in the Middle East and Africa has become easier thanks to a deal with a Kent firm.
Eurostar delivers strong half year results
Eurostar, the high-speed train operator between the UK and mainland Europe, today announced surging demand during the first six months of 2008. Growth in traveller numbers was greatest in towns and cities to the north of London, which now enjoy easy access to Eurostar’s new London station, St Pancras International, and its 186mph cross-Channel services on High Speed 1, the UK’s first high-speed line.
Kent's house-building targets to rise
The Government says it wants to push up house-building targets for Kent and the south east in a move that has dismayed environmental groups and many council chiefs.
Economic Downturn - Kent businesses must plan ahead
More than two thirds of Kent businesses (72%) believe that a downturn in the UK economy would have a negative impact on their business, but 33% of those anticipating worsening conditions do not have a business plan that would prepare them to ride out a downturn.
Eurostar - More services
Eurostar adds more services to meet fast-growing demand from UK regions
- London–Paris trains increased to 18 per day
- Even more services on Fridays – up to 20 trains per day from London
- Rapid growth in demand from towns and cities across the UK
- London–Paris trains increased to 18 per day
- Even more services on Fridays – up to 20 trains per day from London
- Rapid growth in demand from towns and cities across the UK
Supermarket deal to affect 30 Kent stores
The UK's fifth largest supermarket chain, the Co-operative Group is to buy smaller rival Somerfield, which has around 30 stores in Kent.
O'Rourke revenue and profit fillip
Laing O'Rourke is on course to hit its £5 billion turnover target 12 months early after seeing revenues rise one fifth last year.
Health care boost provides vital support to growth town Ashford
Health care services are expanding across Ashford to meet the needs of the town’s rising population, which is set to double by 2031.
Jo takes the reins at chamber
The largest chamber of commerce in the county has a new chief executive.
Hitachi training scheme just the ticket for ‘growth town' Ashford
More than 1,200 new jobs have been created in Ashford over the past year, providing a further boost to the Kent market town’s multi-million-pound growth plans.
The Green And Blue Grid - Ashford
High quality and functional open spaces need to be at the heart of developments in the growth town of Ashford and a green spaces champion is being recruited to make sure it happens.
UKTI 2007/2008 - Annual report
Paul Wookey, Chief Executive of Locate in Kent said: "This year’s record results published by the UKTI in its annual report confirm the significant role foreign direct investment plays in the UK economy and local economy in Kent. The report also reflects Locate in Kent’s successful year in terms of attracting a record number of companies to Kent and increasing job creation by 42% on last year."
New cross-Channel ferry service from 2009
Competition in the cross-Channel ferry business is set to get even tougher with the launch of a new Dover-Boulogne service next summer.
Building A Career For The Future - Ashford
Major housing growth is planned for the Ashford area in the coming years - giving good foundations for a career in the construction industry.
University launches degree in dentistry
A unique degree course aimed at dental care professionals will be launched at the University of Kent's Medway campus this autumn.
UK wins record inward investment in 2007-8
The annual inward investment results for 2007-8 showcase another highly successful year for the UK, with a record 1,573 investment projects won in what marks a fifth consecutive year of growth.
Land Securities gets go-ahead for Northfleet Rise
UK property giant Land Securities has received approval from Gravesham Borough Council for its masterplan for Northfleet Rise, an area to the north of Ebbsfleet International station, part of Ebbsfleet Valley. The company said that outline planning permission for the development of the area around the station had been received in 2002, but that this was subject to the preparation of a detailed masterplan.
Developers Go Back To The Future - RPC Land and New Homes
Despite a softening in the housing market, developers still have an eye on the future and the right land in the right place is still being competitively sought, according to Kent property experts RPC Land and New Homes.
Ashford's future strong
Ashford’s long term growth plans are unlikely to be affected by the current economic downturn, according to the Ashford’s Future Partnership Board. The launch of high speed domestic services from the ancient market town to St Pancras in 2009 will add significantly to the area’s attractiveness as a business location and as somewhere to live; and means Ashford is better placed than many other locations to weather the downturn.
£25m Investment Heads to Kent
Kent Science Park has announced a series of development proposals, which would see a further £25m invested at the park near Sittingbourne in Swale over the next five years and create 500 jobs.
Multi-million pounds stadium plans launched
An £8.5 million sports village project has been launched.
Berry nice: fruit pickers work for Wimbledon
The great Wimbledon strawberry run is under way - with 400 Kent pickers working from dawn to provide three tonnes a day for tennis fans.
Firm's green credentials recognised
A Kent firm which supplies natural home insulation and lime mortars has been picked as one of Britain's greenest companies.
University title confirmed by Privy Council
The University College for the Creative Arts has become the UK's first creative arts university, after being granted university title by the Privy Council.
Ecologia Set To Clean Up
Ecologia, the award winning environmental consultancy and contractor, has developed a groundbreaking remediation technique, which gives it a great opportunity to clean up with the country’s petrol retailers.
Full speed ahead at growth town Ashford as Government Inspector approves core strategy; Inspector declares plan ‘sound’
One of the key national growth areas, Ashford in Kent, has a sound Core Strategy following the release of the inspector’s report.
Kent stations mark 150 years of service
Several of Southeastern's stations celebrate their 150th anniversary this year, providing a timely reminder of just how long Kent and the London suburbs have enjoyed rail links to the capital and the dramatic improvement they have seen over the years.
In-home touch screen to encourage green living, means never missing the bus
It is a familiar irritation — you leave the house to catch a bus to find that you have just missed one and face a long wait at a windswept bus stop.
100 jobs pledged for new Chatham store
100 jobs will be created when a top retailer arrives in Medway.
Cash challenge to fund enterprise
The challenge of finding enough cash to fund enterprise tops the agenda at a conference of business angels next week.
Ashford's brand new Singleton Environment Centre is now open
It is the perfect place to visit to enjoy and find out more about Ashford's green spaces and local environment, to enjoy the walks in the community woodland or sample the fantastic Fairtrade teas & coffees, or homemade lemonade & cakes in the centre's own cafe.
Welcome to Thanet Earth: is this a taste of future for UK agriculture?
Cucumbers and peppers for eight months, tomatoes all year round in seven giant Kent glasshouses
Highways Agency starts public consultation for new M20 junction near South Ashford
People are being invited to put forward their views on plans for a new motorway junction on the M20 near Ashford in Kent. Two public exhibitions will be held in this week as part of the Highways Agency's public consultation for the project.
Cripps Harries Hall financial performance
Tunbridge Wells firm Cripps Harries Hall has posted a muted financial performance for 2007-8 although growth picked up in the second half of the year.
'Regeneration will motor on' in Thames Gateway
The former head of the £9 billion Thames Gateway project has said it will “motor on” despite fears the credit crunch could affect its investors.
Bullet train in milestone run on HS1
A Hitachi built 'bullet train' on test has notched up a milestone run on the high speed line between London St Pancras International and Ashford in Kent.
New jobs on horizon for call centre
A growing call centre business is poised to create up to 70 new jobs.
New phone deal puts us in sync with China
A mobile phone software companybased in Kent has signed a global licensing deal with a leading Chinese handset maker.
MP impressed by visit to growth town Ashford
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Iain Wright MP visited the Government-designated growth town of Ashford in Kent this week (Thursday 5th June) and came away very impressed with what he saw.
Go-ahead for Ebbsfleet scheme
Land Securities has been granted planning consent by Dartford council for the area currently known as Station Quarter North, one of the major development zones that form the Ebbsfleet Valley.
Moovera Takes Top Technology Trophy - Kent Science Park
A Kent Science Park company has won one of the ‘Oscars of the wireless industry’, beating more than 200 entries from 35 countries to take a major prize at the Wireless Broadband Innovation Awards 2008.
Ebbsfleet's potential presented to entrepeneurs in Paris
A reception at the British Embassy in Paris was held yesterday (Tuesday June 3rd) to raise awareness of what is being termed ‘Europe’s most exciting regeneration project’
Economy is set for a bumpy ride
Finance for commercial property deals on both sides of the Atlantic is becoming increasingly hard to source and prices for commercial
property in the United States saw their sharpest decline in February since records began more than 15 years ago.
property in the United States saw their sharpest decline in February since records began more than 15 years ago.
Ex-Gateway boss gets Ashford job
The former head of the Thames Gateway regeneration scheme has been appointed to run a new company set up to drive forward development of a Kent town.
KCC excels in performance rating
Today the Audit Commission confirmed Kent County Council’s status as an excellent authority when it published the results of its “harder test” corporate assessment.
Kent business reports asset growth
Acquisitions have been key to an assets surge by an ambitious Kent financial services business - and it wants to buy more.
Medway selected as 2012 paralympian training camp
The world's fittest, fastest and strongest paralympians will carry out last-minute training in Medway ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Port's expansion plans revealed
People in Dover have been given the chance to look at the port's £420m expansion plans.
Cullum’s Fast Track accolade
Kent billionaire Peter Cullum and his staff are celebrating two top business awards this week.
Creative arts set for £75m boost
Plans have been unveiled for a new £75 million campus in Kent.
Jobs growth is bucking the economic blues
New jobs in Kent have grown nearly three fifths more in the last four years that predicted.
Business boss to open up South African trade route
The chairman of the region’s development agency is hoping a new diplomatic role will bring Kent closer to Africa.
High-speed trains give social and economic boost
High-speed trains stimulate economic growth in cities and regions where they are well connected, according to the results of a new study.
Locate in Kent celebrates record year
Locate in Kent, the investment promotion agency for Kent, announced its most successful year to date having assisted a record number of companies to move to or expand in Kent (75) creating 2,356 new jobs, a 42% increase on last year. The figures were released last night at the agency's End of Year event at Oakwood House, Maidstone. Its 2007-8 annual report also reveals that 107,581 sq ft of office space and 329,100 sq ft of industrial space was occupied by these companies.
Ashford housing market remains strong Ashford as slump deepens
While house buyers and sellers across the UK brace themselves for a tough few months as the credit crunch continues to tighten its grip, demand for homes in the Kent growth town of Ashford remains buoyant.
Business boost as Chinese firms head for county
Thanet’s business community is hoping China is on the verge of coming to Kent. Key decisions are expected soon which could put the China Gateway project – promising 3,000 new local jobs – on schedule to open next year.
Double Top for Kent Science Park Company
A company offering the prospect of faster treatment times at doctors’ surgeries is doubling the size of its operation at Kent Science Park.
Crash, bang, wallop for derelict building
Buildings came crashing down last week to make way for the next phase of Medway Council's multi-million pound business development.
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.
Raise a glass of wine to Frazer!
Well-known local businessman Frazer Thompson, who is also chairman of Kent Institute of Directors, has been crowned Chief Executive of the Year at an awards ceremony hosted by members of a new London stock exchange.
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 - 'Ju