Business grant and relocation in Kent news
New era for Sagittarius Marketing
Sagittarius Marketing has relocated to the fastest-growing town between London and the continent, strengthened its senior management team and re-focused its business to meet a surge in demand for digital and new media services.
Produced in Kent chief with a taste for business growth
Just as its members nurture their home-grown products, Produced in Kent is reaping the reward of seeds carefully sown by its flagship event
Bluewater nets adventure golf course
Adventure Experience is to open its largest outdoor adventure golf course in the UK at Bluewater.
Ambitious drug firm Aesica invests £3m on new facility
Fast-growing pharmaceutical manufacturer Aesica is investing £3 million in a new facility at Queenborough on Sheppey.
Persimmon boss sees green shoots of recovery
Signs of an improvement in the housing market was underlined today by a 27 per cent half-year sales boost by housebuilder Persimmon.
Locate in Kent:Maximising opportunities for property agents
Investment promotion agency Locate in Kent has launched a series of events to maximise networking opportunities and market intelligence for commercial property agents in Kent. The first event, held at the agency’s new offices at 35 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, near Maidstone, was run jointly with the developer of Kings Hill, Liberty Property Trust UK, and was attended by around 20 local agents.
Business is vibrant at Zibrant meetings agency
Business is looking vibrant at Zibrant, the meetings, events and accommodation agency which has its European HQ in Kent.
New Dartford Business Centre - All systems go
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) is to begin work on the development of the new Dartford Business Centre on the site of the former Unwins depot in Victoria Road, Dartford. The 30,000 sq ft landmark building, which will be called The Base, will encourage and support small and starter businesses in the North West Kent and Dartford area.
Ashford station revamp goes ahead with £4.2m grant
The latest funding allocation will mean the new station forecourt can go ahead
Award winning Swale business GoResponse breaks records
A Kent Science Park company is defying recent concerns that the UK is teetering on the brink of a double-dip recession by setting new records for the amount of business it is handling – sending out some of the clearest signals yet that recovery is very possible.
Visit Kent welcomes PM's commitment to tourism
Kent's tourist board has welcomed David Cameron’s vow to focus on Britain’s heritage in a bid to become one of the world’s top five tourist destinations.
Jobs saved after management buyout at Viasys
Fourteen jobs have been saved after the management buy-out of a Kent software company.
Savills Appointed Agent for Manston Business Park
Savills has been formally appointed by East Kent Opportunities (EKO) to act as property agents on the marketing and development of Manston Business Park in Thanet.
Executives discover the benefits of doing business in Ashford
Business leaders from across London and the South East found out just why Ashford is fast becoming the most well-connected town in the UK when they were invited for a VIP visit recently (30 July).
Ashford’s Future Company - New Chairman
Vince Lucas has become the new Chairman of Ashford’s Future Company Limited.
Golden bolt placed in events venue structure
A golden bolt has been fastened into the steel structure of a £60m events venue being built at Bluewater.
Trailer firm Anssems chooses Dover for new industrial units
Dutch trailer manufacturer Anssems is to build new industrial units in Dover.
Kent quick off the blocks to claim Olympics legacy
Two years from now the eyes of the world will be on the UK as the Olympic Games return to London after 62 years.
Manston plans to open Gateway
Developer shifts focus of business park to Chinese start-up companies.
Directline Structures wins prestiigious award
A Kent-based building design and construction company has been voted a winner at this year’s prestigious London and South East Constructing Excellence Awards.
D5 creates new bus station for Chatham
Work on D5 Architects’ designs for a new £5 million bus station in Chatham, Kent, is due to be completed next March.
Consultants commisioned to unlock development potential of Ashford's southern expansion quarter
Ashford’s Future, the organisation responsible for overseeing the £2.5bn development of the up and coming powerhouse of Kent, has commissioned a leading team of consultants to help develop Ashford’s Southern Expansion Quarter – the area south of the high-speed railway and close to Ashford International Station.
Kent wins boost from new film law
Parliament has passed a bill giving local authorities in Kent new powers that will boost the county's status as a leading destination for the film industry.
Kent's seaside towns need government help to boost business
Kent’s seaside towns are not just about rock and candyfloss – they are great places to do business with too.
Merit Solutions: Goodbye Tick-Box, Hello Profit
A Kent Science Park company has unveiled a new piece of software that could provide a serious boost to the local economy.
Kiwis farmed commercially in Kent
Home-grown kiwi fruits could be hitting supermarket shelves by 2012, as the first commercial trial in the UK gets under way in Kent.
Funding approved for new and affordable homes in Ashford
Several Ashford housing projects have benefited from new funding released by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) to take forward schemes providing thousands of new and affordable homes across the UK.
A new town centre street on its way
Representatives from Ashford’s Future, Kent County Council, Ashford Borough Council, VolkerFitzpatrick and Victoria Road Primary School were among the special guests invited to an event celebrating the start of works on Victoria Way.
2011 Open boost for Kent golf
The return of the Open Golf Championship to Kent, the Garden of England, in 2011 could result in more than £20 million of income for the county.
We can all be business ambassadors for our county
Some 1.6 million people who live in Kent are seen as potential ambassadors for an ambitious and possibly unique tourism campaign launched this week.
Innovation fuels renewable energy firm’s success thanks to its technology
A technology that points the way to the future of renewable fuels has helped a Kent Science Park company take top prize at the annual British Renewable Energy (BRE) Awards.
OMM secures former cable factory in Kent as storage facility
Subsea service specialist Offshore Marine Management (OMM) has secured the former AEI Cables site in Kent from landowners South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) for the establishment of a new cable storage, cable plant and key component spares that will act as an industry operational base.
Kent Reliance Building Society to become bank under cash injection plans
Kent Reliance Building Society is poised to become a bank if savers and borrowers back plans for a multi-million pound cash injection and change of name.
Tesco plans bigger store on Strood site
A major redevelopment of a Strood supermarket could provide a significant number of jobs and greater choice for shoppers.
Furley Page expands specialist French property team
Leading regional law firm Furley Page has expanded its specialist French Property and Estates team with the arrival of French property and tax adviser Florence Richards.
Web portal offers a wind farm growth opportunity
A wind of change started to blow across Kent this week – the UK’s first interactive online business directory for the offshore wind industry.
Kentish town tops Poundbury for placemaking
Liberty Property Trust’s Kings Hill in Kent embodies the best of residential development when it comes to new, large-scale rural settlements, says CB Richard Ellis.
Kent tourism campaign 'smells' of money
Kent's stunning new tourism campaign "smells" as though it cost millions of pounds, Lord Alan Sugar's sidekick Nick Hewer said last night.
New group managing director starts at Kent County Council
The new group managing director of Kent County Council started her job today.
Sittingbourne firm wins Kent's top business gong
A construction group built on firm foundations for more than 200 years shone out as a double winner at the county's business event of the year.
LaSalle secures Kent's biggest office letting of 2010
LaSalle Investment Management has secured London and Quadrant Housing Association for a 60,000 sq ft headquarters at Cray House in Sidcup, Kent.
Fast rail service brings economic boost to Ashford
It’s been described by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond as a national success story and a world-class railway operating to international standards.
Manston’s airline tops national Which? Holiday poll
It’s official – Manston, Kent’s international airport, has the top rated UK airline according to consumer watchdog Which? Holiday.
Customer satisfaction increases
Southeastern achieved its best ever customer satisfaction score in the Spring National Passenger Survey published today. The survey, conducted independently by the statutory public transport users watchdog Passenger Focus, shows that over eight out of 10 people who use Southeastern find the service they receive satisfactory or good.
Kent Science Park business wins national innovation award
Research and development work carried out by a business based at Kent Science Park, near Sittingbourne, has helped it take top spot in the inaugural and national Performance Awards.
The Force is strong with Kent web firm
A Kent web management firm is to create 50 jobs after being given the go-ahead for a new office extension.
Ashford shows there are reasons to smile...
Ashford has launched a high-profile campaign promoting itself as the “smart choice” location to live, work and learn. The Reasons To Smile initiative is aimed at young people, couples and families and drives home all the positive reasons why the town is so attractive for business and pleasure – brilliant connections and high quality of life among them.
Keeping Ashford moving
Ashford’s Future is inviting residents to see the big plans in store for the town’s transport network at a public exhibition in the County Square shopping centre on Thursday 24th and Friday 25th June from 10am to 6pm and Saturday 26th June from 10am to 4pm.
Locate in Kent kept or created 3,000 jobs in Kent
Around 3,000 jobs were created or kept in the county last year by the efforts of Kent and Medway's "world-class" inward investment agency.
Locate in Kent assists recrd number of companies to invest in Kent and Medway
Investment promotion agency Locate in Kent announced its 2009/10 figures last night (15 June) showing, despite the economic climate, it helped 82 companies invest in Kent or Medway, the highest number it has ever recorded.
Manufacturing and services output are up in the South East again
The South East underlined its reputation as the UK's economic powerhouse with a boost in manufacturing and services output last month.
Survey says jobs are on the up
Job prospects in Kent, especially in hospitality, are looking better, according to a new survey.
Transformation of church into new £1.7 million arts venue
Plans to transform St Mary’s parish church into a ‘sacred shared space’ - as a vibrant arts venue and a place of worship - have been given the green light by the Church of England’s official planning body.
Design champion Sir Terry Farrell unveils his vision for Ashford and predicts a bright future for 'the powerhouse of Kent'
The arrival of high-speed rail has changed the prospects for Ashford for ever, helping to redefine its role as a centre for innovation and design excellence within Kent, the South East and the rest of the UK.
Sir Terry Farrell outlines plans for £2.5bn Ashford regeneration
Sir Terry Farrell outlined his plans for a £2.5bn regeneration of Ashford yesterday.
Sound financial management sees Cripps Harries Hall beat profit record
Cripps Harries Hall LLP, the leading South East law firm, today announced its financial figures for the year ending April 2010. A very strong finish to the financial year saw the firm beating its profit record achieving £5.65 million on turnover of £19.2 million. All staff will now receive a profit-related bonus from a pool that is over double the budgeted amount: bonuses will range from 6% to 25%. These profits have been achieved through prudent management of the business rather than redundancy.
Law firm Vertex drives deal to develop old paper mill
A Kent law firm played a key role in the sale of a 14-acre site that heralds a new phase in Sittingbourne’s regeneration.
Eurotunnel buys UK freight operator
Eurotunnel has bought the third largest British rail freight operator, GBRf, from international transporter FirstGroup plc.
Visit Kent targets London commuters
Visit Kent has unveiled it is to target London commuters in its next advertising campaign.
Flybe’s new Scottish route gives Kent opportunity to capitalise!
Flybe, the UK’s Number One Domestic airline, today operated its first flight from Manston to Edinburgh that, with a suitably Scottish send-off, also marked the return of daily scheduled passenger services from Kent International Airport.
Kent County Council Leaders to visit Lydd Airport
A high-level delegation from Kent County Council is planning to visit Lydd Airport on a fact-finding mission to learn more about the airport’s ambitious £25m development plans to upgrade the site and create hundreds of jobs in the process.
Dozens lined up for KEiBA business award
More than 30 enterprises and individuals are hoping for a top award.
Chamber pleased to have the Chancellor's ear
of Kent Invicta Chamber have been told their organisation has a direct line into Britain’s new Chancellor George Osborne.
Flybe launches new service from Kent International Airport, Manston, to Edinburgh today
Airline Flybe is to launch a service to Manchester from Manston from the autumn.
Staff at Kent recycling firm SWEEEP lined-up for sauna benefits
Hot saunas are being lined up for staff after Finns pumped millions of pounds into a Kent waste recycling plant.
Business leaders from Europe take a tour of Medway
Cross channel connections were strengthened yesterday when a leading business delegation from Europe took a whistle stop tour of Medway.
Medway secures multi million pound European funding
Medway has secured European funding for a series of new projects set to benefit residents and businesses in the area.
Constructive spirit helps apprentices
is calling for Kent’s largest building firms to help stimulate a ‘spirit of apprenticeships’ throughout their sector.
Ashford companies benefit from grants
Thanks to assistance from investment promotion agency Locate in Kent, in the last month three successful businesses have been awarded a grant to expand in or relocate to the Ashford area.
Design champion Sir Terry Farrell to present his vision for Ashford
Ashford’s design champion Sir Terry Farrell will reveal his much-anticipated ideas for turning the growth town into “the powerhouse of Kent” at a presentation on 2 June 2010. Sir Terry, an acclaimed international urban design authority, will unveil his ideas when he addresses a specially-invited audience of businesses, developers, investors and community groups at Ashford International Hotel.
Contract agreement heralds start of Victoria Way project
Construction is about to start on Victoria Way, to provide a new route to the south of Ashford Town Centre.
Medway Council grant gets business on the road to success
A local business has hit the road thanks to a cash boost from Medway Council.
Ramsgate to be base for wind farm workers
It's been announced that the port of Ramsgate is going to be used a base for all of the workers building the world's largest offshore windfarm.
Construction boost for Kent
The gloom is lifting from Kent's construction industry as more building projects get under way.
Bluewater and John Lewis beat the recession
About 190 new jobs will be created when a new Kent store opens in the autumn.
Kent accounting firm Reeves & Neylan merges with London firm
An award-winning accounting firm is set for further growth after merging with a London business.
Kent's tourism net widens after new site set up
As more hotels are needed to cope with an expected surge in tourism, a new website has been set up to help developers.
Wind farm expansion to create jobs
The wind is set fair for more job creation in Kent with the decision to extend two offshore energy projects.
Terry Farrell wins Folkestone seafront job
Architect will draw up plans to redevelop Kent town harbour.
Dover Arts Festival
High art is coming to Dover at the Dover Arts Festival to be held at Dover College on Saturday, 15th May 2010. Art, music, wine and patisserie will combine in a high quality programme that puts Dover at the centre of the creative arts in the South East.
Locate in Kent puts county on the hotel map
Locate in Kent, Kent and Medway’s investment promotion agency, has launched a new interactive website aimed at helping hotel developers find suitable sites and properties in the county.
Vue enter third successful year raising skills for women
Vue Training & Consultancy based in Kings Hill, Kent, is working with Lantra, the Sector Skills Council for environmental and land-based industries, for the third consecutive year developing women under-represented within their sector.
Cripps Harries Hall signs up college of law as exclusive training provider
Cripps Harries Hall LLP, a leading South East law firm, has named The College of Law as its exclusive provider of the full range of professional training courses for its trainee solicitors.
Location, location, location
Locate in Kent, the county’s inward investment promotion agency, which helps companies find business premises in Kent and Medway, has moved to new offices at Kings Hill, near Maidstone.
Folkestone harbour: is this the way ahead?
Long-awaited plans over the future redevelopment of Folkestone harbour are to be revealed, with the public invited to give their own feedback.
New intranet means better and greener communication for Rydon
One of the South East’s largest construction companies has re-launched its intranet to improve staff communication and help reduce C02, thanks to a Chatham company.
Cripps Harries Hall private client team bolstered
Cripps Harries Hall LLP, the leading South East law firm, has announced the promotion of Chris Wilkinson to the partnership.
GForces creates web jobs in Bearsted
An ambitious web management firm is to create 50 new jobs as soon as it is given the green light for an office extension.
Double honour from Queen for Kent biotech firm
The Queen has granted a double honour to a hi-tech firm that gives people early diagnosis of cancer, pregnancy and other medical conditions.
Festival of Innovation, 19-23 April
The Festival of Innovation at the Nucleus will include a range of events suitable for innovative and growing companies that have been designed to inspire anyone wishing to grow and develop their business. Each event will include time for networking – and could lead to some new business opportunities.
Leading foreign investment professional joins Invest Thames Gateway team
Invest Thames Gateway (ITG) today expanded its inward investment team and announced John Rutherford OBE, the experienced foreign inward investment professional and ex-British diplomat, as their new Inward Investment Manager.
Apex Credit Management expands to Kent
Financial services company, Apex Credit Management, based in Stratford-Upon-Avon, has expanded into Kent. The company’s Discovery Solutions division has taken a Regus serviced office at Kings Hill Business Park, near Maidstone, and hopes to create 50 new jobs in the county over the next three years.
Jonathan Tuckey opens up new courtyard in Folkestone’s centre
Jonathan Tuckey Design has submitted a proposal to build a £1.5 million retail and housing development in the heart of Folkestone, Kent.
Skye IT flies into West Malling
Up to 20 jobs are being created in West Malling by technology company Skye IT which is opening a new headquarters at Kings Hill.
HCA pledges £23m for Kent infrastructure projects
The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) has announced its investment of £23m in the Kent Thameside Strategic Transport Programme.
Creative Quarter, Folkestone - Open Afternoon - Thursday 15 April 2-5pm
The Creative Foundation is offering opportunities for artists and creative businesses to join Folkestone’s burgeoning Creative Quarter.
N.T.F.W. (New Technologies for Waste) powers into business
Biomass fuel specialist N.T.F.W. (New Technologies for Waste) has expanded from a research and development and project management operation in Ashford and taken an unused property at Kingsnorth Industrial Estate, Rochester, to launch its treatment and processing facility.
Plans for new M20 junction published
Details of a key scheme to allow for major economic growth in the Ashford area by increasing capacity on the M20 through Kent were published by Transport Minister Chris Mole on 30 March 2010.
Interest in business locations in Kent 'holding up well'
Interest in Kent and Medway as business locations has held up reasonably well despite the recession.
Design champion Sir Terry Farrell to discuss his vision for Ashford at workshop
Sir Terry Farrell, newly-appointed design champion for Ashford, is to outline his initial thoughts and observations on turning the growth town into “the powerhouse of Kent”.
Wire Belt wins top Institute of Directors award
A Kent boss has scooped a top award.
Hot off the press: Prometheus expands in Kent
Despite difficult times for the printing industry, one company, based in Tonbridge, Kent, has invested £2.5m in its business, and in December, moved into larger premises in Kent, allowing it to expand into new markets.
Margate and Ramsgate to benefit from £5 million investment in UK seaside towns
An extra £200,000 is to be spent on creating jobs in Margate and Ramsgate as part of a government investment in seaside resorts.
Will city status be the making of Medway?
A campaign to win city status for Medway will be launched next week when leading architects, designers and regeneration chiefs gather to debate the area’s future at a key conference, The Making of Medway.
Business Angels are heaven sent for Kent companies
Investor confidence in Kent is helping local companies to grow, thanks to the work of Kent Investor Club (KIC) after its latest meeting to consider the injection of investment into three firms.
Development agreement signed for Elwick Place, Ashford
The £2.5bn transformation of Ashford town centre has taken another major step forward with the appointment of Stanhope plc to develop Elwick Place.
Kent's smaller businesses give cautious thumbs up to Budget
Kent firms have welcomed help for small and medium-sized businesses in the Budget and estate agents are celebrating help for first-time buyers.
New forecourt for international railway station in Kent
A forecourt at an international railway station in Kent could be made less congested and have new seating and walkways under plans going on show.
Traffic Commissioner praises Fastrack operation
Kent Thameside’s Fastrack system has been praised by Philip Brown, the South Eastern and Metropolitan Traffic Commissioner, as he tried out the award-winning rapid transport system for himself to see how it is meeting the needs of local people.
Kent turbine factory could create 1,000 jobs
A factory making wind turbines could be set up in the county, creating up to 1,000 jobs.
Free green advice for local businesses
Businesses in the Kent town of Ashford will soon be able to access invaluable help and advice on their business waste responsibilities at a forthcoming free event being held on 31 March 2010.
Plans unveiled for new Ashford International Station forecourt as £2.4m refurbishment is opened
Exciting changes planned for the domestic side of Ashford International Station forecourt have been unveiled on the day that a £2.4m refurbishment project to upgrade facilities was officially opened. The investment is timed to coincide with the recent launch of high-speed rail services which have cut journey times from Ashford to London to 37 minutes.
Flybe's new Manston route is blossoming!
Flybe, the UK’s Number One domestic airline, reports that its newly announced daily Edinburgh to Manston service has attracted strong interest in record time with many flights already more than 50% full.
Interactive mapping tool goes live
Ashford Borough Council has launched a new interactive tool which maps out how planning policies could affect land across the borough as the town grows.
Refurbished Ashford International Station unveiled
Ashford International was today officially unveiled by Damian Green, MP for Ashford, to the public following a six month refurbishment project to create a better station environment for passengers. The refurbishment cost £2.4 million, with £1.2 million provided by the National Stations Improvement Programme (NSIP) and a further £1.2 million given by Ashford’s Future from central government growth area funding.
Gathering celebrates success of Thanet Works
Young people who have started jobs through the Thanet Works project came together to talk about their roles with a Government minister.
Farrell to champion design in Ashford
World-famous architect Sir Terry Farrell has been appointed Design Champion for the government-designated growth town of Ashford. The acclaimed international urban design authority is the town’s ambassador as it seeks to fulfil its ambition to become “the powerhouse of Kent.”
Palace Trained Nadia turns her Fruity Designs into a Kent based business
It’s not every day that you can buy products from a supplier trained by someone who served the King of Thailand. Local entrepreneur Nadia Yeomans has recently set up with her own fruit carving business Fruity Designs, with advice and support from Business Link. Now Kent based Nadia, who was born and raised in Thailand is offering her beautiful fruit art to customers all over the UK from her base near Folkestone.
Saga expands care service across Kent
Following a highly successful trial across East Kent, Saga Independent Living is about to extend it’s high quality domiciliary care service across West Kent, bringing improved standards of care to those that need it and creating hundreds of new jobs in the county.
IoD Kent Appoints Chairman - David Philpott
Kent businessman David Philpott has been appointed Chairman of the Kent branch of the Institute of Directors.
Cripps receives recognition as ‘Best Company to Work For’
Cripps Harries Hall LLP, the leading south east law firm, has been recognised as one of the UK’s top employers in ‘The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies To Work For 2010’ list, published on 7 March 2010.
Kent rural business centre opens to boost jobs
A new centre that aims to boost rural business and jobs has been unveiled.
Shepway councillors support £25 million plan to develop Lydd Airport
Proposals to develop Lydd Airport into a successful modern regional airport took a giant step forward last night (Wednesday 3 March) after Shepway District Council voted 2-to-1 in favour of passing a resolution to grant approval for two planning applications.
Ashford businesses flock to discuss future of town centre
More than 40 Ashford businesses and key stakeholders have met to discuss future plans for the Kent market town and how the Town Centre Partnership can help support them grow and prosper.
University to appoint ten new professors for Medway
The University of Kent is continuing its major investment in the Medway campus by creating twenty new academic posts. Of these positions - which will be taken up from September 2010 - ten are at professorial level.
Lab plans are a boost for Sandwich Pfizer site
A hi-tech chemistry laboratory is to open at the Pfizer plant in Sandwich, showing how the facility is a major world player in the pharmaceutical business.
Countrystyle Group expands to clean up the county
Countrystyle Group, one of the largest privately-owned waste management and recycling companies in the South East, is continuing to expand across Kent with the assistance of investment promotion agency, Locate in Kent.
Town centre blueprint approved
A plan setting out the future vision for Ashford’s Town Centre have been approved. The blueprint shows how 3,100 homes, 8,000 jobs, 70,000 sq metres of retail/leisure space and around 95,000 sq metres of office development will be created in the Kent town centre over the next 10 years.
Bluewater events complex unveiled
Plans to build a £60m event venue at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent, which could create hundreds of jobs, have been unveiled.
A new home for Medway’s brightest new businesses
Medway’s unique start-up facilities for new high-tech businesses are being brought together under one roof.
Builders back on site at St Mary's Island thanks to Kickstart funding
Workers are returning to a stalled development on St Mary’s Island, Chatham Maritime, Kent, thanks to £6.93 million of Kickstart funding from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).
Ashford International crowned station of the year
Ashford International Station has scooped a top national award for improving cycling provision. Ashford was crowned the Station of the Year at the National Cycle Rail Awards 2010 held at the House of Commons on the 3rd February.
Flybe opens up garden of England
Flybe, the UK’s Number One Domestic Airline, has today announced another brand
new route namely a daily Edinburgh to Manston service that, apart from opening up
the Garden of England to the Scottish market also offers regional travellers the only
scheduled flight to be currently operated out of Kent International Airport.
new route namely a daily Edinburgh to Manston service that, apart from opening up
the Garden of England to the Scottish market also offers regional travellers the only
scheduled flight to be currently operated out of Kent International Airport.
Hunter Off-site Ltd expands in Kent
Hunter Off-Site Ltd, the UK’s most advanced sustainable timber-frame volumetric housing manufacturer, has expanded within Kent. Hunter’s relocation to a 30,000 sq ft premises in Aylesford, Kent has led to the creation of 20 new jobs, with a view to doubling this in the coming year.
The Pines Calyx earns place in prestigious new ethical guide
Kent’s most eco-friendly conference and events venue, The Pines Calyx in St Margaret’s Bay near Dover, has become one of the first venues in the world to win a coveted place in a new travel guide from renowned publisher Alastair Sawday.
VisitKent wins national marketing award
Kent edged out London to scoop a national award for the way it woos tourists.
Port of Ramsgate boosted by Channel ferry agreement
Two ferry companies have announced a deal to collaborate on cross-channel services which could boost traffic through the Port of Ramsgate in Kent.
Ashford celebrates national award for shared space
Ashford shared space has scooped a top national award for town regeneration. The pioneering scheme picked up the category award at the prestigious Royal Town Planning Institute ceremony in London’s Hilton Hotel, Park Lane.
Kent Investor Club (KIC) fronts “Business Angels” venture
Leading regional law firm Cripps Harries Hall LLP hosted the second in a series of meetings for the Kent Investor Club (KIC) on Wednesday 3 February 2010, at their offices in Tunbridge Wells.
Go-ahead for Chatham’s new bus station
Plans for a new high-tech bus station for Chatham were last night approved by the council’s planning committee.
Bluewater turns waste into education
Bluewater has been shortlisted for a green gong for turning 6,000 tonnes of waste into a study centre.
Major housing development gets green light
A major new housing development has been given the thumbs up this week after Persimmon Home South East’s application to build 79 homes at Park Farm in Ashford, Kent was approved by Ashford Borough Council’s Planning Committee.
Commuter trains from Calais to Kent 'could be running before 2012 Olympics', claims French mayor
A commuter ‘metro’ train between France and Britain which would confirm the Calais area as a ‘suburb of London’ could be up and running in time for the 2012 Olympics, a French mayor has claimed today.
Thames Gateway business leaders vote Kent the top university
The University of Kent has been honoured by Thames Gateway (Kent) Chamber of Commerce.
locations4business - new site is first place for business locations information
A website launched in February 2010 is a one-stop shop for information about siting a business within the UK.
London array wind farm off coast of Thanet gets a step closer
Plans for the world’s largest offshore wind farm edged closer on Wednesday, with the go-ahead for ships and crew to lay its foundations.
Sittingbourne's Coniston Hotel to reopen in spring
Kent’s newest hotel is to open in the Spring.
Vision of 21st-century Kent is unveiled
Major plans to build a new Thames crossing between Kent and Essex have been revealed as part of a blueprint setting out the county’s future for the next 30 years.
Loan funds US push for Medway components firm
A growing Medway manufacturer is pushing into American markets with the help of a Government-backed loan of almost £690,000.
New homeware store will bring 35 jobs to Tunbridge Wells
A new homeware store is set to open its doors in Tunbridge Wells later this year – creating 35 jobs.
Speed will bring new life to Kent's coastal towns
Quicker journey times between London and Thanet are key to lifting the East Kent economy, according to Kent County Council leader Paul Carter.
New River Thames crossing proposed by Kent council
Plans to build a new River Thames crossing between Kent and Essex have moved a step closer.
The Nucleus Business Innovation Centre to benefit from Launchpad Service
SEEDA and Locate in Kent, in conjunction with key partners in Kent, created Launchpad UK in March 2009. The service provides bespoke packages of professional support designed to reduce the risks and costs for knowledge-driven foreign companies entering the UK market.
Dr Robert Crawford CBE appointed Chairman of Invest Thames Gateway
Invest Thames Gateway is delighted to announce the appointment of their new Chairman, Dr Robert Crawford CBE, Executive Director for Operations at the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).
Major announcement today on investment in Kent
Kent’s future as a 21st century county leading the way in regeneration and the region’s economy has been set out in a report published today.
ICE-T's First Call for Proposals - 'Residential Homes'
ICE-T will officially launch its first call for project proposals at their ‘Access SEHTA and ICE-T millions’ event on 2nd February 2010 at Burford Bridge Hotel, Boxhill, Dorking, Surrey.
Privatisation comes to port of Dover
The Port of Dover is to be fully privatised, it has been revealed.
Kent International Airport boss steps down after three years
After three years in the pilot's seat at Kent International Airport (KIA), chief executive Matt Clarke is to return home to New Zealand.
Thanet Earth harvests in January
Thanet Earth has the earliest harvest of cucumbers in the UK, with its first crop ripe before the end of January.
Hornby toy manufacturer enjoys brisk sales
Hornby, the Kent-based hobby and toy manufacturer, has steamed ahead with strong Christmas and New Year sales.
New Contracts Rising - South East business data
The number of new contracts won by private sector businesses in the South East of England rose last month at the fastest pace in over two years. The results from the latest survey, sponsored by the South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA), show the increase in new work has led to a growth in business activity in the region.
The monthly South East PMI (Purchasing Managers’ Index)® survey is conducted among a representative panel of manufacturing and service sector companies in the region.
The monthly South East PMI (Purchasing Managers’ Index)® survey is conducted among a representative panel of manufacturing and service sector companies in the region.
Margate – setting the creative scene
Margate has long-standing creative links, from JMW Turner, who dubbed the skies above Thanet ‘the loveliest in all Europe' to the more modern Tracey Emin. The town is set to benefit from a multimillion pound regeneration programme, which includes plans for the world’s first heritage amusement park and the construction of the new Turner Contemporary Gallery. Home to a growing community of artists, Margate is continuing to attract interest from the creative sector.
Longer and faster trains needed for next 30 years
Faster trains with more carriages and better access to London stations are all recommended as part of a 30-year rail strategy for Kent.
High speed future proving bright for east Kent
Government minister Jonathan Shaw has learned that the new high speed rail link has provided a 'quantum leap' for east Kent’s economy.
Go green and save IT costs
Kent-based IT specialist ADA Technology Services will be running a series of free seminars to help businesses realise the benefits of green IT.
Business First scheme matches graduates with companies
A recession-beating scheme in Kent is matching skilled graduates with small and medium-sized businesses.
Stars of business prepare for county's premier awards
The search is on for the county’s shining business stars.
Plans submitted for 'Angel of the South' giant horse
Plans to create a sculpture of a giant white horse dubbed the "Angel of the South" have been submitted to a council in Kent.
Cripps’ Partners recognised as leading lawyers
Leading regional law firm, Cripps Harries Hall LLP are proud to announce that two of their private client partners have been recognised as Leading Lawyers in this year’s Citywealth Leaders List.
University of Kent - Sporting chance
The University of Kent has signed an agreement with Medway Council to enhance sports facilities for its students and the wider community.
Chatham Dockyard workshop becomes business hub
An historic dockyard workshop is now home to 38 businesses and dozens of jobs just one year after a facelift.
New Year's honours for Kent
A former senior civil servant from Tonbridge has been recognised in the New Year Honours list.
No accidents and slower traffic - Ashford's shared space enjoys successful first year
Ashford’s pioneering shared space road system has marked its first anniversary without a single personal injury accident. Average traffic speeds have also been cut.
London Array signs contracts worth almost €2bn for work on world’s largest offshore wind farm
•Supply and installation contracts finalised for first phase of offshore wind farm
•Six contractors signed up
•Project on track for first phase construction completion in 2012
•Six contractors signed up
•Project on track for first phase construction completion in 2012
Manston unveils final Master Plan
The vision for the future use of Kent International Airport at Manston has been laid out in its Master Plan, the final version of which has now been presented to stakeholders by the airport operator.
Early action helps avoid costly building disputes
In challenging times for the construction industry, the last thing a company needs is to become embroiled in costly building disputes with their clients.
Bullet trains deliver good news for the economy
Economists are predicting a bright future for Kent as new businesses look to take advantage of improved transport links to London and the Continent.
Businesses convinced about Kent’s high speed rail benefits
With the full high speed rail services from Kent and Medway to London officially launching today (14 December), investment promotion agency Locate in Kent predicts increased interest in the county as a business destination.
Kent top of premier league
The Audit Commission has published the league table for the performance of all local authorities in England.
Take a look at Business Services at Canterbury Christ Church University
Gaining a competitive business advantage often involves challenging preconceptions, thinking harder and looking differently at what you thought you knew about your business and your markets.
Direct flights from Lydd to Jersey – new route announced
Jersey-based C. I. Travel Group today announces the launch of a new air route from London Ashford Airport (Lydd) to Jersey, once again linking the west of Kent and East Sussex with the island for the first time in almost 20 years.
New university opens its doors in Canterbury
Canterbury is set to welcome a prestigious new educational campus on Saturday as The American University formally opens its doors.
Urban renewal creates 6,000 South East jobs
A £2.5 billion urban renewal programme in Ashford is expected to create thousands of new jobs in the South East.
Royal British Legion Industries expands in Kent
RBLI Employment Solutions, a division of the long-established Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI), a charity known for its work with disabled and disadvantaged people, as well as the ex-Service community, has expanded in Kent, allowing it to assist more people with disabilities to find sustainable employment.
Cripps ranked number one in region for seven practice areas in leading legal directory
Cripps Harries Hall LLP, the leading South East law firm, continues to demonstrate high quality legal advice with another year of top rankings in the latest edition of Chambers UK – a Client’s Guide to the UK Legal Profession.
Isle of Sheppey masterplan through
The masterplan for the £400m regeneration of Queenborough & Rushenden on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent has been formally adopted by Swale Borough Council.
New business faculty opens at Canterbury Christ Church University
Business has welcomed a new university faculty that aims to raise workforce skills and knowledge.
Park Scientist Wins Gold - Innovation Awards
Research and development work carried out at Kent Science Park, Sittingbourne, has helped an inventor walk away from this year’s British Invention Show with a host of top awards.
State of the Economy – The Inside Track Business Breakfast
Businesses across the South East are invited to get the inside track on the state of the UK economy this month with a special business breakfast in Ashford.
Does high speed rail link mean more business for Kent?
It takes just 14 minutes to get from St Pancras station in Central London to Ebbsfleet in North Kent using Southeastern trains new high speed rail link. It's not a particularly pretty journey as most of it passes through tunnels but it is certainly fast.
Prime Minister visits Kent
On Thursday 12 November, the Prime Minister visited Kent to meet local people and talk about their concerns on issues such as immigration.
Dreamland campaigners secure £4m to build world's first heritage amusement park in Margate
Margate looks all set for a blast from the past after campaigners secured £3.7million to turn their exciting heritage amusement park plans into a reality.
New jobs for Ashford as town continues to defy recession
Ashford’s ambitious growth plans were given another boost this month when national retail giant Waitrose opened its first store in the town, creating 154 jobs. Waitrose is one of several companies to bring employment opportunities to Ashford in recent months, as confidence in the town’s prospects continues to strengthen.
Report finds market confidence growing in Kent CEOS
The Financial and Business Services Survey 2009 commissioned by investment promotion agency Locate in Kent, has revealed that 56% of companies feel optimistic about the financial climate and its impact on their business, compared to just 29% in October 2008.
Crest Nicholson, Medway Council and SEEDA sign Rochester Riverside development agreement
Housebuilder Crest Nicholson has today signed an agreement to press ahead with plans to build the first new homes on Medway’s flagship regeneration site Rochester Riverside.
Park flies Thames Gateway flag for Kent
Kent Science Park, near Sittingbourne, flew the flag for the county when its site director took to the stage at this year’s Thames Gateway Forum.
Cripps invests in ‘home grown’ talent
Leading regional law firm, and Locate in Kent principal partners, Cripps Harries Hall, announces the retention of four newly qualified solicitors on completion of a two year training contract with the firm. This maintains Cripps’ record of growing the legal expertise within the business by training graduates and retaining them on qualification.
Ashford transport schemes receive funding boost
Ashford’s ambitious growth programme has been given another welcome boost, with the approval of £15.1m of Regional Infrastructure Funding for two major transport schemes.
Former army sapper awarded Medway Council's first business start up grant for new firm
A former Royal Engineer made redundant from his most recent job has started his own company after becoming the first to receive funding from a new Medway Council business grant scheme.
New jobs as Holiday Extras restructures for growth
Holiday Extras, a UK market leader in holiday add-ons and a major employer in Kent, expect new jobs to be created as part of a re-organisation of the company announced this week.
Centre opens to help people find work in Medway
A dedicated centre run by a council in Kent to help people get back in to work was officially opened today (Friday).
No room at the booming innovation centre
Every office at the groundbreaking Marlowe
Innovation Centre in Ramsgate has been filled.
Innovation Centre in Ramsgate has been filled.
Transport infrastructure a key factor to investment, says study
The quality of a city or region’s transport infrastructure is the deciding factor for most investors when considering locations for developments, a new study has found.
Kent Property Market Report
According to a new report, Kent's property market has defied the challenging economic climate of the past year.
Canterbury Christ Church University celebrated five years at the Universities of Medway
Canterbury Christ Church University celebrated five years at the Universities of Medway Campus this week with the announcement of 200 more student places.
Major road improvements plans go on show
Plans for major road improvements for the town are to go on show next week. Ashford residents and business will have the chance to study plans to improve capacity at Junction 9 of the M20 and nearby Drovers Roundabout, set to begin next spring.
Wallett's Court Hotel wins silver in regional tourism awards
Wallett’s Court Country House Hotel has won a Silver Award in the Tourism ExSEllence Awards 2009 in the small hotel / townhouse of the year category. It is the first time that Wallett’s Court has been entered for the annual awards.
Plato is the logical answer for Kent businesses
Incorporating sustainability or green issues into any company activity can help win new business, cut costs and increase profits.
Aircraft firm AvMan Engineering to create up to 40 jobs at Manston
A new aircraft maintenance business is creating jobs in Thanet, with the prospect of generating long-term training and employment.
All change as new trains timetable unveiled
The biggest change to Kent's rail commuter timetable in 40 years has been unveiled this morning.
Homes sales boost for developer Hillreed Homes
A Kent-based property developer announced today that recent sales figures had rocketed by more than half.
Northfleet: 200-year-old industrial site set for demolition
Demolition is set to begin at a 200-year-old industrial site next month as plans to turn it into a housing development press ahead.
Boost in apprenticeships for Kent
A new business model based on a programme run in Australia has paved the way for 950 apprenticeship places in Kent, Surrey and Sussex.
Cripps Harries Hall appoints former ACCA MD as new
Cripps Harries Hall LLP, the leading Tunbridge Wells law firm, has appointed Iain McCusker, former Managing Director of ACCA - the global body for professional accountants – as its new non-executive director.
Lord Digby Jones comes to Kent to launch massive networking opportunity
Lord Digby Jones, the “voice of business” and former CBI director-general, will start the countdown to Kent’s biggest-ever “networking” wall.
Chinese housing chiefs learn how it’s done in Ashford
A delegation of housing chiefs from Kunming in south west China visited Ashford this week to learn how Ashford Borough Council (ABC) delivers it housing services. The three housing directors toured Stanhope to see first hand how the community is being transformed through a £150m regeneration project.
High-speed trains boost property market
Kent’s property market is showing signs of improvement, helped by the arrival of high speed domestic trains.
UK's first eco-quarter announced
New technologies that provide sustainable energy to homes and businesses will be tested in the country’s first eco-quarter, located in the Thames Gateway, the Government announced today.
Kent Property Market Report defies expectations
The Kent property market recorded a healthy and encouraging performance in 2008/09, exceeding expectations on a number of fronts, according to the 2009 Kent Property Market Report.
New agreement gets Ashford housing development back on track
Ashford has given house building a massive kickstart after adopting a flexible new approach to the way it deals with major developers.
Ensuring sustainable regeneration in fast growing Ashford
Remade South East and Ashford’s Future have launched three innovative products to help construction companies ensure that the growth and regeneration of Ashford is achieved sustainably.
Park Offers Free Business Health Clinics
Making sure a business is in the best shape to ride out the recession can often require an expert¹s opinion, which is why Kent Science Park (KSP) is holding a series of free business clinics to provide invaluable advice.
High speed services introduced at weekends
Southeastern today announced that high speed services will be extended to weekends, starting on Saturday 10 October. The new service will provide an hourly return service from St Pancras International to Ashford International, as well as a half hourly return shuttle service from Ebbsfleet International to St Pancras International.
It's official: Kent's fastest-growing business is...
Specialist recruitment agency Hobson Prior is the fastest-growing business in the county - with staggering four-year growth of nearly 600 per cent.
Success of Medway firms ‘bucks national trend’
Medway businesses are facing the challenge of the economic downturn head on and are bucking the national trend by producing some excellent results, the 3rd Construction Expo was told.
Kent International Airport at Manston launches flights to Italy, Austria, Croatia, Portugal and Malta
Package holiday flights to Italy, Austria, Croatia, Portugal and Malta will take off from Kent International Airport next year.
Get set to become international
Are you or your business looking to take advantage of trading in international markets but just don’t know how?
AEI Compounds invests in new facilities and production capacity
AEI Compounds Ltd, a subsidiary of TT electronics plc, is to move its operations from its current base in Gravesend to Sandwich, Kent. The company manufactures and sells plastic compounds, used in the manufacture of electric cables and hot and cold water pipes. AEI Compounds serves a global customer base.
3663 Consolidates at Paddock Wood site
3663 First for Foodservice has opened its £17.6m 120,000 sq ft multi-temperature distribution depot in Paddock Wood, Kent. It constructed the depot on the site of the town's former Whirlpool warehouse, which burnt down four years ago.
Station improvements will provide better welcome to Ashford
Long awaited improvements to Ashford station are under way and the first phase will soon be complete. From December travellers will step out of a state of the art glazed station entrance/exit into an improved forecourt leading to the town centre, Designer Outlet and beyond in the first phase of works to give Ashford the kind of station a town served by high speed trains deserves.
Malik says Sheppey set to boom as recession lifts
The Isle of Sheppey is set to forge ahead in prosperity when the global recession receeds, according to a leading Government minister.
Massive changes coming to docks
A massive regeneration project to transform Sheerness Port with hundreds of millions of pounds in investment for a new marina, housing and hundreds of jobs, has been announced.
Big names line up for Construction Expo
Design guru Wayne Hemingway will be among the guest speakers at this week’s third annual Construction Expo.
Ashford aims to become the ‘economic powerhouse’ of Kent
A draft report into Ashford’s future prosperity, which maps out how it can be developed into “an economic powerhouse” within Kent, has been approved by Ashford Borough Council’s Executive Committee.
Dover Castle top attraction of tourism campaign
Dover Castle has become one of the top attractions in a county tourism campaign.
Denham launches North Kent MAA
Communities Secretary John Denham earlier this month chose a Thames Gateway location to announce the introduction of new powers for local authorities to work more collaboratively under the second wave of Multi-Area Agreements (MAAs).
Kent firm wins grant to develop green project
A pioneering firm has been granted £200,000 to develop a product that cuts fuel consumption in cars.
Grosvenor Hall redeveloped into children's education centre
A multi-million pound children’s education and activity centre in Ashford will open its doors in March with the promise of 50 local jobs.
Port regeneration would create new jobs for Island
An ambitious plan to regenerate the Port of Sheerness and double the town’s population is being put forward by a multi-billion pound business concern, Yourswale exclusively reports.
Skye IT expands UK presence with launch of new Kent office.
Skye are pleased to announce the opening of their 4th UK office, based in Kings Hill Business Centre, Kent. The Kent office is the latest addition to the Skye Groups growing UK presence, with offices already situated in Essex, Surrey & Leeds.
Belarus and The Ukraine use Kent as Olympic base for judo teams
The two countries who will base part of their squads in Kent for the London Olympics have been revealed.
Jamie Staff unveils high speed train
Today Jamie Staff, Beijing Olympic Gold medalist, unveiled a high speed train named after himself in recognition of being one of ‘Britain’s Fastest’. The ceremony took place at Ashford International Station and was attended by local dignitaries including Cllr Paul Clokie, leader of Ashford Council and Damian Green MP for Ashford.
Housing developments get the go-ahead as investor confidence in Ashford continues to grow
Ashford’s ambitious growth programme has been given another welcome boost, with local planners approving two multi-million-pound housing developments.
Council to build affordable homes
Ashford Borough Council is one of only four local authorities in the south east to begin building social housing after the introduction of new rules which allow councils more financial freedom.
Kent gears up for high speed rail
Building on the successful high speed rail preview services from Southeastern, which mean Ebbsfleet International is 17 minutes away from St Pancras International, and Ashford International is a 37 minute journey, services have been extended to several more East Kent stations. Kent organisations are gearing up for the full launch of services with a campaign to promote the businesses benefits of a ‘high speed’ Kent and Medway.
Maidstone Television Studios unveil new ultra efficient data centre
Maidstone Television Studios, one of the UK's premier TV studio operators, has launched its first highly efficient, on-site data centre under its Custodian brand.
Green light granted for growth
Swale Borough Council has given Kent Science Park the green light to go for growth after it granted permission to extend the Sittingbourne-based development and create room for a further 500 much-needed new jobs.
Kier buys Telereal Trillium’s Kent schools projects
Kier Group has bought Telereal Trillium's investment in Kent's first Building Schools for the Future (BSF) Local Education Partnership (LEP).
Science park becomes centre of hi-tech care for elderly and vulnerable
Kent Science Park aims to be in pole position as a new “telecare centre of excellence”, designed to improve the health of an aging population.
High speed preview trains begin from east Kent
Commuters to London from east Kent are getting their first taste of the new high speed rail service today.
'Man Utd airline' moves in at Kent International Airport
An airline that has flown presidents, royal families and the Manchester United football team has made Kent International Airport its new home.
Sittingbourne unveiled as a UK property hot spot
Sittingbourne is one of the top three places in Britain to live for those looking to make money from property ownership, according to a new study, Yourswale reports.
Investment in defence is 'a path out of recession'
The defence industry is calling for more investment in a sector that employs 79,000 people across Kent and the south east.
The Pines Calyx to benefit from launch of high speed trains
One of the UK’s most eco-friendly conference and events venues is now even more accessible thanks to the launch of 140mph high-speed train services to Kent.
DfT pledges £122m for Kent road improvements
The Department for Transport (DfT) has given the thumbs up for £122m-worth of transport improvement schemes in Kent.
Firms encouraged to invest in Kent
Business angels are being encouraged to invest in small firms across the county to help them grow and create jobs.
Traffic-busting £87m link road gets green light
Endemic traffic congestion outside one of Kent's biggest employers should be a thing of the past after an £87m road scheme was given the green light.
Traffic firm on road to success thanks to buyout
Workers who organise complex contraflow systems on motorways have been told their jobs are safe after the sale of their specialist firm.
Publishing Software Company Starts New Chapter
An award winning Kent technology firm is getting ready to open the next chapter on its success after its management took up the prize of a year’s rent-free business accommodation at Kent Science Park, near Sittingbourne.
Saga bosses post profits
Acromas Holdings, the owner of Kent-based Saga and the AA, posted higher sales and gross profit last year, although financing costs contributed to losses of more than £500 million.
Change at the controls of high-speed Eurostar
Eurostar will have a different look to its management team next year, it has been announced.
FW Mansfield & Son farm in Kent creates dozens of new jobs
Dozens of new jobs are up for grabs at FW Mansfield & Son's farm in Kent thanks to the creation of an £8.5m packhouse and storage complex.
Stanhope regeneration milestone as shops are demolished for new ‘Legacy’ centre!
The changing face of Stanhope, in Ashford, Kent passes another milestone with demolition of old, rundown shops to make way for a new local centre, to be named the ‘Legacy’ building.
University science school finds cash for research
Nine science jobs are to be created in Medway.
Jobs being created at food depot
A food distribution depot being opened on the site of a warehouse that burned down will see jobs being created in a Kent town.
Manston airport handles record volume of freight
There has been a further sign that more confidence may be creeping back into the Kent economy.
More High Speed services announced
The exciting build-up of high speed services to Ashford continues with news of more services starting in September. A limited preview service of the high speed domestic trains began on 29th June, slashing journey times between Ashford and the capital to just 37 minutes. These have been a runaway success: the punctuality, reliability and popularity of the service beating all expectations.
High-speed rail service extended
High-speed train services are being extended to stations in east Kent from next month, it has been announced.
New hope for Fisherman's Beach
A neglected strip of land and former industrial site in Hythe is to be transformed, preparing the way for it to become a beachfront location for new homes.
New chief executive talks to Yourswale
The new chief executive of Swale Council has said he is “hugely excited” to be working for the authority and ready to meet the challenges ahead.
Park proves a match for DNA specialist
Epiome, a specialist DNA testing company at the cutting edge of genetics, has made Kent Science Park its first home.
Town enjoys the benefits of foundation
The rejuvenation of Folkestone is ploughing ahead despite uncertainty over the national economic situation.
Environment secretary hails Thanet Earth success
A series of giant greenhouses in Kent have been given a glowing endorsement by the man in charge of Britain's environment.
Fast rail service lures house buyers to Ashford
The launch of high-speed domestic rail services from Ashford to London St Pancras is drawing affluent city workers to the Kent town in search of a better lifestyle.
Region's private sector shows improvement
The private sector in Kent and across the south east expanded slightly in July, according to an influential survey.
Kent businesses empower consumer choice with launch of ‘Proud to Franchise’
19 local franchise businesses in Kent are now engaged in ‘Proud to Franchise’.
Kent firm wins royal double
The Lord Lieutenant of Kent has hailed a vital food supplier for its rare royal double.
Web firm creates 50 jobs
G-Forces, a web design and management company, is celebrating 10 years in business by unveiling plans to create 50 new jobs.
Premier Inn to bring hotel jobs to Rochester
Hospitality jobs could be created in the south-west and south-east of England upon the completion of five new sites by Premier Inn.
New website helps businesses stay legal
A one stop website that can help Medway businesses find out how to trade safely and legally has been set up.
IGF Factors - Extends lease in Kings Hill
Leading independent finance provider IGF has extended its lease on offices at Kings Hill, endorsing the business park¹s position as a hub for the financial services sector.
Jobs created for unemployed Kent young people
The Government has created more than 1,800 jobs in Kent in a bid to prevent another ‘lost generation’ of young people.
High-speed start for high speed rail service
Preview high-speed rail services between Kent and London have proved such a hit with passengers more services could be added.
Government Minister Sees Fruits of Scientists’ Labours
East Malling Research (EMR) was at the heart of the debate on how the UK can produce a greater share of the fruit and vegetables that it consumes every year, when the Kent research establishment welcomed Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for Department of Environment, Farming & Rural Affairs (Defra).
£10m creates jobs for unemployed
More than £10m is being invested in Kent to create 1,800 jobs for young unemployed people.
Firm given royal seal of approval
A high-tech firm celebrating its 70th anniversary has been given a royal seal of approval.
Ice cream firm scoops top award
Kent ice cream maker Sally Newall has scooped a double in the Great Taste Awards.
Kent graduates and businesses show Minister how they can work together to beat the recession
Graduates and businesses from Kent met with Jonathan Shaw, Minister for the South East, on Friday to highlight how a new initiative is aiming to help beat the economic recession in the county.
Make Dover exhibition
Massive regeneration plans costing almost £8 million are the focus of an exhibition in Dover.
Margate's Dreamland scoops windfall
The Dreamland Trust has received the first pot of cash in its multimillion pound bid to get the former Margate theme park back up and running.
Hornby in Olympic coup
Margate model maker Hornby has been given an Olympic-sized boost after winning a licence to create a range of London 2012 merchandise.
Ground-breaking ‘shared space' Ashford street scheme
The UK’s first shared space scheme has been completed in Ashford, Kent.
Ten-point plan to tackle recession
Medway council is cranking up help for start-up businesses, graduates and the unemployed in a package of measures to counter recession.
Leading educational activity provider comes to Kent
Kingswood Educational Activity Centres, one of the UK’s leading education activity providers, has received planning approval from Ashford Borough Council to develop Ashford’s Grosvenor Hall into a “top educational activity centre in Europe”, creating at least 150 jobs.
Ceremony marks £7.3m structure
A ceremony has taken place to mark the structural completion of the multi-million pound Innovation Centre at the University of Kent.
Experts will help drive businesses out of recession
Enterprise hubs in Kent and Medway are to be replaced by teams of experts who will help growing and innovative firms drive their way out of recession.
Commercial quarter plans unveiled in Ashford
A new 590,000 sq ft business district to take advantage of high-speed rail links to London and Europe is planned for Ashford.
Drive to attract Londoners to Kent
Kent tourism chiefs are capitalising on the stay-at-home trend by taking their campaign to London.
Award-winning Coast comes to Kent
The Bafta award-winning TV show Coast will begin its latest series exploring the story-filled nooks and crannies of Kent’s shores.
Marsh wind farm officially opened
The South East's largest onshore wind farm is being officially opened on the Kent-Sussex border by the Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Milliband.
Housebuilder says market is improving
Bovis, the Kent-based housebuilder, has reported signs of improvement in the housing market.
Getting on the bus to help small firms
Medway, Maidstone and Gravesham councils have each signed a Small Business Engagement Accord with the Federation of Small Businesses, an organisation with some 7,000 members across the county.
Kent entrepreneur praised by Mandelson
Business Secretary Lord Mandelson has applauded a successful Kent businessman for encouraging entrepreneurs.
New chair for SEEDA
Business Secretary Lord Mandelson has today announced the appointment of Rob Douglas CBE as the new Chair of the South East England Regional Development Agency (SEEDA).
Cripps tops in the community
Leading regional law firm Cripps Harries Hall LLP were awarded top honours in the Business Commitment to the Community section of the inaugural Kent Excellence in Business Awards held recently at Leeds Castle attended by 500 guests.
Caterham factory in Dartford taking on more staff
Caterham is facing such strong demand for its new models, it’s had to up production at the UK plant.
£2.4m refurbishment of Ashford International Station
The arrival of new domestic high-speed rail services linking Ashford and London has prompted a £2.4m refurbishment of Ashford International Station. The six month refurbishment project started today, with £1.2m provided by the National Stations Improvement Programme (NSIP) and £1.2m given by Ashford’s Future from central government growth area funding.
'Kent set for leap forward' - inward investment agency
Locate in Kent, the agency that promotes the county as a great place for business, is cranking up its campaign to bring in more jobs over the next five years.
Jobs boost as John Lewis creates 192 posts at Bluewater
John Lewis is to create 192 new jobs at its new foodhall at Bluewater.
High speed services proving a success
Following the successful launch of the ‘preview’ High Speed services on Monday 29 June, passenger numbers using the service have required Southeastern to double the length of the train on some services.
Holiday Extras scoops employer award
Hythe-based travel company Holiday Extras came away with the Employer of the Year award from the inaugural Kent Excellence in Business Awards. The company was also named among the finalists for Large Business of the Year and Customer Service and Commitment Award.
KEiBA business story
Enterprises and individuals across the county are celebrating glory in the first-ever Kent Excellence in Business Awards.
Free Site Waste Management Plan Support in the South East
Construction companies are being encouraged to reduce, reuse and recycle their waste through a new South East-wide initiative.
Kent makes friends for business in Brussels
Kent tourism and inward investment chiefs were in Brussels yesterday (Tuesday 30 June) to tell key influencers in Europe why Kent is a great place to visit, invest and do business.
Kent County Council awarded CBC status
The team behind many public sector construction projects in Kent has been awarded Chartered Building Consultancy (CBC) status by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) – the first time such an accolade has been awarded to a county council.
County Hall's £200k to help fund film production
Kent has got the filmmaking bug after one movie earned the county half a million pounds.
Locate in Kent comments reveals action plan for economic recovery
Locate in Kent, the investment promotion agency for Kent and Medway yesterday (29 June) launched its medium term plan to ensure that the county remains a premier business location for UK and international businesses in the long term. The action plan outlines a series of ambitions and initiatives over the next five years, which will position Kent at the forefront of the economic recovery, fuelling growth and creating job opportunities across the county.
High-speed preview of train service
Commuters will finally be able to see if the new high speed rail link really is all it has been billed as from today.
Council and University awarded London 2012 Inspire Mark
Kent County Council and Canterbury Christ Church University officially received the London 2012 Inspire Mark on Tuesday 23rd June for an innovative Olympic and Paralympic education project.
Keiba awards a sellout success
The first Kent Excellence in Business Awards (KEiBA) ceremony is a sell-out -with almost 500 tickets being snatched up by Kent’s business community.
Commuter property: new high speed train brings buyers to Kent
The high speed rail link from Ashford to London will make parts of Kent more desirable for commuters.
Developer building faster as demand begins to grow. 40 new homes planned
Hillreed Homes, the most prolific developer at the well known, Kings Hill development in West Malling, Kent are looking to increase the speed of build as the company gears up for an expected increase in demand as the market steadies and mortgages become more readily available.
Minister impressed by Ashford's progress
Jonathan Shaw, Minister for the South East, visited Ashford to see the excellent progress it is making with its growth agenda and how well-poised the town is to capitalise on high speed domestic rail services.
Tonbridge development plans approved
Plans to rejuvenate a "horrible eyesore" in Tonbridge won the unanimous support of a committee last week – but the site looks set to remain unoccupied for the time being.
Vivacta raises £2.8m to commercialise blood test technology
Vivacta, the medical diagnostic company based at Kent Science Park, has secured a further £2.8m to commercialise its blood testing device, which offers the prospect of faster treatment times at doctors’ surgeries.
Kent enters a new train age
Kent has entered a new age of the train.
Kent County Council backs Kent Businesses in Westminster
Kent County Council is backing Kent's business community with a seminar held at the heart of government on Wednesday, June 17.
Vivacta raises US$4.5 million to commercialise piezofilm technology for point-of-care diagnostic tests
Kent-based diagnostic technology company Vivacta has announced today that following successful development of its TSH (thyroid function) test, together with prototype commercial readers, it has closed a $4.5 million financing round that was fully subscribed by existing investors.
Record breaking train set for launch
On 18 June Southeastern invited members of the media and key stakeholders to use the UK’s first domestic high speed train.
Isle of Sheppey regeneration lifted by infrastructure boost
Plans to build 2,000 homes and 2m sq ft of employment space in Queenborough & Rushenden on the Isle of Sheppey have taken a significant step forward after consent was given for a crucial road link.
Ashford picks up speed with town centre masterplan
New 590,000 sq ft business district to capitalise on high-speed rail link to London and Europe.
Chatham up time
Regarded as an unemployment blackspot 25 years ago, new homes, businesses and higher education have given Medway a fresh start.
Herne operation
Herne Bay needs its disparate attractions to be connected up to fulfil its retail and leisure potential.
Join Olympics party, firms told
Kent firms that have not yet bid for Olympic contracts have been urged to join the party.
China chiefs’ chopper ride over Thanet Gateway site
A delegation from the Far East has paid a flying visit to see the site of the multi-million pound China Gateway business park where construction work is due to start next year.
Chapman Bathurst - Moving to Kings Hill
Leading building services consultants Chapman Bathurst is moving its Kent offices to Kings Hill, near Maidstone, to provide easier access to its clients and accommodate the company’s planned growth.
Kent Inns of Distinction - Expansion and new jobs
Kent Inns of Distinction, a privately owned Kent-based restaurant and hotel operator, has announced ambitious expansion plans with the acquisition of two derelict sites and half a million pounds investment in refits, with the creation of 30 new jobs.
Kent film maker's movie hits the red carpet
A film written and directed by a former Kent student is getting its gala premiere tonight.
Comment on the European Attractiveness Survey by Ernst & Young
Paul Wookey, Chief Executive at Locate in Kent comments on the European Attractiveness Survey 2009 just released by Ernst & Young:
Chance to share passion for Kent
Kent people with a passion for their county and spare time to share their enthusiasm with visitors are invited to become part of a new Kent Greeters network.
First glimpse at site of world's biggest wind farm
An incredible feat of engineering is under way 12 kilometres off the Thanet coastline, as the world’s largest wind farm begins to take shape.
'Bags of cash' to be spent by high-speed shoppers
Commuters attracted into the county by high-speed trains are set to boost the economy by spending their "bags of cash" in local towns.
Bullet trains run preview service
Rail passengers on commuter routes from Kent to London will be able to try out the new Japanese-built bullet train on a special preview service.
Cripps reports encouraging results
Cripps Harries Hall LLP, the leading South East Law firm, today announced its financial results for the year ending April 2009.
Wind farm foundations constructed
Construction work on an £800m wind farm is under way off the east Kent coast, with the first foundation piles now visible above the water.
Shower firm makes a splash with royals
An award-winning shower design and manufacturing firm has made a royal splash.
Glimmer of hope for small businesses?
The doom and gloom of recession may be giving way to a glimmer of optimism, according to a survey of small firms.
Freight catamaran arrives in port
The first high-speed freight catamaran to operate across the English Channel has arrived at a Kent port.
Luxury hotel "vision" could create 1,500 jobs near Tonbridge
More than 1,500 jobs could be created in a massive transformation of a mansion on the edge of Tonbridge into a luxury hotel.
Manston airport sale "not ruled out"
The chief executive of Infratil has not ruled out selling stakes in Manston airport if a buyer can be found, according to a business website.
Audit Commission praises Medway £6bn regeneration programme
The Audit Commission has praised Medway’s £6bn regeneration programme by giving it the highest rating ever received by a local authority.
Seaside pier wins architect award
Four buildings in Kent - including a seaside pier - have won awards from the Royal Institute of British Architects.
Commercial Group Properties plans ‘China Gateway’ conference centre in Kent
Commercial Group Properties has signed a memorandum of understanding with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to set up a joint venture to construct, fund and let an exhibition and conference centre at Manston Business Park in Manston, Kent.
Firms in line for Kent's top business award
Three businesses each stand a chance of notching up a hat-trick of winners’ trophies in a prestigious new award contest.
European partners to land in Medway for regeneration meeting
Representatives from across Europe will meet in Medway this month to discuss ways to regenerate abandoned military sites.
Bosses chip in for charity
A golf tournament for Kent bosses organised by the Institute of Directors (IoD) raised £420 for the Hospice in Weald at Pembury.
World's biggest wind farm gets the go-ahead
The world’s biggest wind farm is to go ahead off the Kent coast.
Locate in Kent comments on the green light for London Array
Peter Symons, Director of Business Development at Locate in Kent comments on the go-ahead of the first phase of London Array offshore wind farm:
Cripps Harries Hall LLP expands Private Client Group
Leading regional law firm Cripps Harries Hall LLP has announced the expansion of its Private Client Croup with the appointment of Associate Chris Wilkinson. Chris qualified in 2001 with White and Bowker (now Blake Lapthorn) in Winchester before joining Southampton law firm Paris Smith LLP in 2006.
Sir Graeme Odgers honoured with Kent Invicta Award
Sir Graeme Odgers has received the Kent Invicta Award to recognise his outstanding achievement for the county. He joins comedian Dave Lee who received the award last year for his charity work.
Kent council sets up practice in Brussels
Kent County Council (KCC) is set to take the unusual step of launching a legal practice in Brussels.
Airline services company arrives at London Ashford Airport
Air charter company Trans Euro Air has moved into London Ashford Airport, and offers a range of passenger and cargo air transport services to UK customers.
Checkmate Group invests in revolutionary wave power project
A Sheerness-based firm is making waves in the quest to generate energy from the sea.
Kitewood announces two new developments at Altira Business Park in Herne Bay
Work has commenced on two new Headquarters buildings for local Kent high tech companies at Altira Business Park, Herne Bay. The two design and build premises commissioned by ICOM and JT Biosciences total 32,000 square foot of office and warehouse space. The foundations have been laid and steels erected this month with a completion date due in the summer.
Aldi builds major distribution hub
Neats Court is part of a £400 million, 60-hectare regeneration of the Isle of Sheppey on land acquired by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and The Crown Estate.
Supermarket pulls away from landfill
Supermarket giant Sainsbury’s has this week stopped sending food waste from all its stores in the county to landfill sites.
MP officially launches new property showcase initiative
Gillingham and Rainham MP Paul Clark officially unveiled a new property showcase initiative by Medway-based Greyfox Estate Agents.
The South East's Very First Facility For Plasterboard Recycling
Countrystyle Recycling Ltd will shortly complete the development of their new plasterboard recycling and gypsum recovery operation at Ridham near Sittingbourne, Kent. This will have an annual capacity of between 20,000 and 40,000 tonnes and operations will commence in March/April 2009.
Leading educational activity provider buys Grosvenor Hall site in Ashford
Kingswood Educational Activity Centres has announced its purchase of Ashford’s Grosvenor Hall site. The UK’s leading educational activity provider and part of Education Travel Group, Kingswood will develop the site into the top educational activity centre in Europe, continuing the company’s rich heritage of study, sports and technology.
Kent PC users are first in the world!
Kent PC users have become the first in the world to trial a new internet super-dooper highway!
'We need to talk things up more' - IoD Kent chairman
Business needs to show more "Dunkirk spirit" and lead the country out of recession, according to a Kent boss.
Government spending programme approved for growth town Ashford
Ashford Borough Council’s Executive last night (Thursday 30 April) agreed proposals from the Ashford’s Future partnership to spend government growth area funding on a range of projects designed to improve transport links, enhance community facilities and encourage private sector investment.
Ashford Batchelors factory reopens creating 220 jobs
Kent has become a European centre of dry food manufacturing after the opening of a new factory with the creation of more than 200 jobs.
Healthy Growth Brings About Factory Expansion
David Bailey Furniture Systems, a leading manufacturer and supplier of fitted furniture for the healthcare and education sectors, has transferred its Worktop Department to new offices close to the company's Headquarters in Broadstairs, Kent.
Locate in Kent creates record number of jobs in Kent
Locate in Kent, the investment promotion agency for Kent and Medway, announced its 2008/09 figures yesterday (28 April), showing that it created 2,891 jobs; a 23% increase on last year’s figures. During an event in Ashford, the agency revealed it has assisted a record 76 UK and international companies to expand or relocate to the county, contributing nearly £126m to the Kent economy and occupying more than 1.5m sqft of commercial property space. When indirect and retained jobs are added, this totals 5,439 jobs in Kent this year.
Deal signed to attract top firms to Thanet
An organisation which is part of the United Nations has signed a deal with a government agency to encourage businesses to the China Gateway project at Manston.
Kent awarded Gold
Kent County Council has been awarded Beacon Status for its work on securing Legacy from the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Tessa Jowell, Olympics Minister, presented the award to Kent, which secured the top grade of ‘Outstanding’.
Locate in Kent comment on the Budget 2008-09
Peter Symons, Director of Business Development at Locate in Kent commented on renewable energy:
New fast ferry for Dover
A new fast ferry is set to link the Port of Dover with Boulogne when it enters service next month.
Firms' enterprise recognised with Queen's Award
Three Kent businesses have been honoured by the Queen.
Mobile phone firm rings up huge profits
Synchronica, an international email-to-mobile phone technology business with offices in Kent, has rung up a 61 per cent sales boost.
Towergate revenue rises despite 'hostile' market
Towergate, the ambitious Kent-based insurance group, has defied "hostile" market conditions by hiking revenue by 13 per cent.
Revenue continues to rise at the Port of Dover
Operating profits at the Port of Dover rose last year, despite the economic downturn.
We're making headway in Medway
High-speed commuter services in to London are set to make this corner of Kent a homes hotspot, says David Spittles
Families struggling with debts now have new 'bank'
A "community bank" offering low interest loans and credit to people struggling with crippling debts and household bills is to be set up by Kent County Council.
Atlas Ward builds depot for 3663
Atlas Ward has started work on a new £13 million multi-temperature depot in Paddock Wood for foodservice distributor 3663 First for Foodservice, replacing three existing sites.
Economic Challenge Investment Fund to help strengthen links between graduates and local businesses
The University of Kent welcomed the news that it has been jointly awarded £311,563 under the government's Economic Challenge Investment Fund.
Kent Science Park Shortlisted For National Award
Kent Science Park, near Sittingbourne, is one of three places shortlisted in the national UKSPA Awards, which celebrate efforts to create scientific people, places and partnerships across the country.
TV star Phil Spencer launches Kent Design Awards
Television property expert Phil Spencer has launched the Kent Design Awards 2009-10.
Internet magazine firm honoured with top award
The winner of a £20,000 innovation prize for revolutionising magazine publishing has admitted to being stunned with the decision.
Temple Waterfront regeneration scheme unveiled
Medway's multi-billion-pound regeneration programme has taken a major step forward today with the submission of a planning application for Temple Waterfront in Strood.
Corks pop as winery wins a county honour
Tenterden-based Chapel Down Winery recently won the award for Kent's Best Wine – for its Chapel Down English Rosé – at the Taste of Kent Awards, staged at Leeds Castle.
Nearly 100 new jobs on way in Tesco expansion
Almost 100 jobs are to be created after the Island’s Tesco store was given the go-ahead for expansion.
Smiths Medical relocates international headquarters to Eureka Park
Quadrant Estates has secured a new letting at Eureka Park in Ashford, to Smiths Medical International Ltd.
Building a bright future for Kent's businesses
Kent's business show of the year was hailed a "stonking" success and the best yet as 4,000 people turned up determined to beat the recession.
Funding boost for vital new road project in Ashford
A key transport scheme which will help unlock the future growth potential of Ashford has received a significant boost following the announcement it has been successful in a £16.5m Government funding bid.
Building firm creates 75 new jobs...and there's more to come
A construction firm working on local schools has defied the downturn by chalking up 75 new jobs and promising 15 more before the end of the year.
'Sheer hard graft' of Kent businesses honoured
Award winners and other Kent firms have been praised for overcoming tough economic times by hard graft.
Council appoints top architects to Council property framework
Kent County Council £80m building improvement works framework appoints Nightingale Associates.
Rural affordable housing opens its doors in Ashford
Ashford is setting a benchmark for rural affordable housing, as another development opens in the Kentish countryside. A new collection of affordable homes have been unveiled in Smeeth and Brabourne, which will help to keep local people in the villages they love and preserve community facilities and services for years to come.
Funding for Aylesham approved
The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) has today confirmed that it has approved a £6 million investment for the employment and training requirements of Aylesham in Kent.
Airport development would be a major boost to regeneration says report
The development of London Ashford Airport (Lydd) would bring major economic benefits to Shepway, says a new report, which identifies the region as the third most deprived district in Kent.
Ebbsfleet effect likely to draw in investors
Property investors should buy now to take full advantage of the Ebbsfleet effect, according to local estate agents, writes Bob Sherwood . But investors should not expect a quick return after high-speed domestic rail services begin.
Theatre development to go ahead
A Kent theatre has been given permission to begin work on a major £25.6m redevelopment.
Plans submitted for affordable eco-housing development in Kent
The government-funded Brownfield Land Assembly Company has submitted plans to turn a former tyre yard in Sittingbourne, Kent into eight new affordable eco-homes.
Roll up, roll up - for the world's first heritage amusement park
A Kent town has unveiled plans for the world’s first heritage amusement park.
Gravesend’s Clifton Wharf scheme receives planning consent
Down River Properties has won planning consent for Clifton Wharf, a riverfront development to the north-west of Gravesend Town Centre.
Exhibition of multi-million investment for Ashford
The next stage in Southern Water’s multi-million investment in the infrastructure of Ashford is due to start this month and the company is inviting local people to visit an exhibition to find out more about the scheme which will ensure the future growth of the town can be accommodated.
BAA sell-off could boost Kent airports
Kent airports could enjoy a boost after competition watchdogs confirmed BAA must sell Gatwick and two other airports.
Cllr Jane Chitty unveils new space business centre Medway
Councillor Mrs Jane Chitty, Medway Council's Portfolio Holder for Strategic Development & Economic Growth, officially unveiled the brand new ‘Space Business Centre Medway’ at its launch event held on 13 March 2009.
ICE President opens Scott Wilson's new Ashford base; tours pioneering shared space scheme
International consultancy Scott Wilson has opened its new office in Ashford, Kent. President of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) Dr Jean Venables, OBE FREng, officially opened the office at a ceremony on 17 March 2009.
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.
Defying the ravages of recession
Inward investment agency Locate in Kent is on course to beat its annual jobs target by creating or safeguarding more than 5,000 jobs.
Bluewater launches 10th anniversary celebrations by honouring outstanding Bluewater employees
On the 16th March 2009, Bluewater, Europe’s leading shopping and leisure destination will celebrate its 10th Anniversary and to mark the occasion will launch a year-long programme of local community events and activities.
Fremlin Walk ‘best for shopping’ in Kent
Fremlin Walk has been named as one of the best shopping destinations in Kent by The Times newspaper.
Dreamland heritage park: here's the way ahead
Plans for Margate’s Dreamland heritage theme park are to be unveiled at the weekend.
The expert guidance on offer for area's growing businesses
Victoria Ballard, who runs an educational chart company based in Sevenoaks, is featuring in radio advertisements to promote the services of Business Link in Kent.
Jobs boost as Waitrose confirms store plans
Waitrose has confirmed its commitment to opening a supermarket in Kent later this year - creating 140 jobs.
Regeneration plan for Tunbridge Wells still on track
Ambitious plans to revitalise Tunbridge Wells town centre, including changing the use of the Town Hall, are still on track despite the recession.
GoResponse is the Fastest Growing Company in the Telephone Answering Sector
According to the latest Plimsoll Analysis, GoResponse is evaluated as number one for sales growth in the Telephone Answering Service Sector, out of 51 prominent companies.
Folkestone's Quarterhouse is open for talent
The latest addition to the regeneration of Folkestone’s old town was unveiled today (Thursday) by Government minister Barbara Follet.
Holiday Extras named as one of The Sunday Times Best 100 Companies
Holiday Extras® has been awarded a place in the prestigious Sunday Times Best 100 Companies to work for, 2009.
First Thanet Earth product in at Tesco
The first-ever vegetables to be grown at Thanet Earth will go on sale this week, ahead of the expected arrival date of mid-April.
Eco-friendly coffin company awarded funding
Ecoffins, a leading manufacturer of eco-friendly coffins and part of parent company SAWD Partnership, has been awarded a grant to assist its expansion in Sittingbourne, Kent. The company was awarded a grant of up to £50,000 by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) under the Grant for Business Investment scheme.
Could Kent become the next Hollywood?
There are plans to make Kent the new Hollywood - after one hit film alone brought in £1m.
The Brussels Connection
Kent has its very own corner of Belgium, not far from the European Parliament. International House employs some of the county's top business minds to explore potential cross-border cooperation.
Firms encouraged to seek opportunities in Europe
Businesses are being encouraged to look to Europe to beat the recession as Canterbury council courts opportunities in France and Belgium.
Save-Fuel Technology Goes Global
Kent-based firm Oil Drum has ‘shaken hands’ and signed an initial agreement with BAE Systems that provides a framework to allow the two organisations to negotiate methods of making Oil Drum’s fuel saving technology available to military vehicle applications around the world.
Confidence in Ashford remains high despite recession
Ashford’s ability to continue to attract major investment, despite the deepening recession, is helping to keep the town’s ambitious growth plans firmly on track.
Aquafuel in new technology breakthrough
Kent Science Park company Aquafuel Research, has developed a new technology with leading biofuel supplier Greenergy, further improving the sustainability of biodiesel production.
All News...'Great day' as Ashford-Brussels Eurostar service resumes
Ashford once again has a direct train service to Brussels.
Ashford to Brussels fast rail link renewed
Kent County Council today (23 February) welcomed the renewal of the Ashford to Brussels fast rail link after it was controversially stopped in 2007.
Summer start for high-speed bullet trains?
Travellers are set to get an earlier than expected taste of the much-anticipated high-speed rail link to London with a limited ‘preview’ service kicking in this summer.
Kent Science Park goes for growth
Kent Science Park, near Sittingbourne, has put the finishing touches to a major planning application to Swale Borough Council, which would see a further £25m invested over the next five years.
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.
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".
Business Link customers boost business growth expectations
Business Link research* has found that 49% of business customers in the South East that use Business Link expect to grow in the next 12 months, compared with only 24% that do not.
Cripps recognised for expertise in 17 practice areas in leading legal directory
Cripps Harries Hall LLP, the leading South East law firm, continues to build its reputation for top quality legal advice with a total of 17 practice areas ranked in Chambers UK Guide to the Legal Profession 2009 reflecting the high quality of legal expertise available across Cripps’ business and practice groups.
Initiative to help manufacturing firms survive
A major awareness initiative to boost business support services to help local firms fight the recession was launched on Wednesday at the “workshop” of the Garden of England.
The Kent Big Day Out 2009
The Kent Big Day Out 2009, with thousands of free tickets to top tourist attractions being given away to county residents, is being held on Saturday, March 28.
Science park plans for 100 new jobs
Kent Science Park is preparing for an economic upturn with plans to create space for a further 100 hi-tech jobs.
County Square bucks the trend with sales increase
Ashford is bucking the trend when it comes to shops feeling the pinch during the credit crunch. The revamped County Square shopping centre has reported a huge increase in sales over the Christmas period, with business up 39.4% at the end of December compared to the previous year.
LxB gets go ahead for Tunbridge retail park
LxB's has got the go-ahead for a 110,000 sq ft retail park in Tunbridge Wells.
Extra boost for Kent travel firm
Kent-based Holiday Extras has defied the downturn to scoop a top travel industry award.
Gravesend Council backs £3m scheme to build community theatre
A new £3m scheme to build a community theatre and day nursery has been backed by a council.
Life in Kent is great: it's official!
Congratulations! You have the third best quality of life in England!
New centre to help businesses cope with recession
A new branch of business consultancy UKE Learning has opened in Sittingbourne and it is expected to create a total of 25 new jobs.
Council to give updates on regeneration progress
A newsletter has been launched by the council to keep residents and businesses up to date with the latest developments about the regeneration of the town centre.
National Forces Day event "will put Chatham on map"
All eyes will be on Chatham this summer as the Historic Dockyard hosts the first National Armed Forces Day.
Farm museum cultivates jobs
The Museum of Kent Life has unveiled development plans for the 28 acre site, which promise to create jobs.
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.
Bosses endorse KCC business plan
Bosses have signed up to the county council’s business manifesto promising to help firms weather recession.
Fremlin Walk wins prestigious green award
Fremlin Walk shopping centre has won a prestigious Green Apple for its eco-friendly trading and could now represent the UK at the European Business Awards for the Environment.
Holidaymakers 'flocking to Kent' - and that might mean jobs
Leading figures from the county’s tourism industry claim it is going from strength to strength despite the economic downturn.
New appointment to boost development of skills in Ashford workforce
Ashford’s Future, the delivery agency for the Government-designated growth area, is looking to boost the skilled local labour market by recruiting a Skills Co-ordinator.
Folkestone to London in 49 minutes
A key figure in Folkestone's regeneration has branded revised, 50-minute commuting times "fantastic".
Kent's first lifelong learning campus gets under way
Work is getting under way on Kent County Council's first purpose-built lifelong learning and community campus for The Bridge development near Dartford. VIP guests got together for a photocall to mark the start in earnest on Friday 23 January.
Eurostar brings forward Ashford-Brussels date
Eurostar is to bring forward the re-introduction of a direct service between Ashford International and Brussels.
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.
High Street boost on the way
Ashford is about to get a boost as major battles are poised to break out in High Streets - the Big Boys are at last standing up to the economic downturn and put on the gloves for a fight.
Kent getting good GCSE results
Classroom standards in Kent's secondary schools improved again in 2008, with more pupils securing five or more good GCSE passes, according to the latest set of Government league tables.
Licence Fuels Oil Drum’s Growth
A Kent firm is well on the road to commercial success after it signed a deal to licence the manufacture, sales and distribution of its Save-Fuel On Demand Hydrogen Generators™ throughout the UK.
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.
Supermarket recruiting massive workforce
Supermarket giant Morrisons is recruiting hundreds of staff for its new distribution centre in Sittingbourne.
Business hub re-opens at Chatham Historic Dockyard
Dozens of businesses in the creative industries will soon be making their way at the dockyard where Lord Nelson launched his world-famous naval career.
Furley Page celebrates its first anniversary at Thames Gateway
A year on from the launch of its Thames Gateway office at Chatham Historic Dockyard, leading regional law firm Furley Page is bucking the trend and celebrating a period of growth.
Busy month for Port of Dover
The Port of Dover saw its busiest December for four years in spite of widespread gloom in the UK economy.
Boost your business to beat the downturn
Directors are being urged to give their firms a big boost by competing for the Kent Excellence in Business Awards 2009.
Bridge go-ahead to complete Sittingbourne relief road
Kent County Council has been given the go-ahead to build the Milton Creek bridge and complete the Sittingbourne Northern Relief Road.
New retail park for Tunbridge Wells
THE DEVELOPMENT of a £45m retail park featuring Marks and Spencer, which will transform a run-down site in Tunbridge Wells and create 335 new jobs, has been given the go-ahead.
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.
University Of Kent - World leading research
The University of Kent today warmly welcomed the news that a great deal of its research has been ranked as world-leading in terms of originality, significance and rigour (4*), according to the Government's 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE). The University is placed 24th out of 118 participating institutions in terms of the best, or 4*, research.
Painting the greenhouse red
AS IT stands, it is a sea of green – but within three months, Thanet Earth will be transformed into a ripe, red carpet of juicy tomatoes.
Town celebrates university status
Acelebration has been held to mark Maidstone’s new status as a ‘university town’.
Kent CEOs remain upbeat despite downturn
The Financial and Business Services Survey 2008 commissioned by investment promotion agency Locate in Kent, has revealed that nearly a quarter of companies feel prospects are better for being based in Kent rather than elsewhere in the UK.
2009: The Year of the Tourists?
The plunging pound will be good news for Kent tourism next year, experts predict.
New Kent Depot
Leach Lewis Plant has opened its latest regional depot in Maidstone, Kent.
Minister heralds advent of new high-speed trains
Transport Minister Andrew Adonis has launched a one year countdown to the introduction of high speed passenger services by Southeastern.
New equipment investment at Manston reaches £1 m
Manston’s Kent International Airport has taken delivery of three ground support vehicles costing a combined £500,000 - and bringing the airport’s investment in operations equipment to more than £1 million in the past 12 months.
Water way to travel - are river taxis the future?
Water taxis could be the new way to travel between Kent and London.
New Day Dawns for Eclipse
One of Europe's leading independent laboratories, with an international reputation for high quality analysis, support and advice, has chosen Kent Science Park as its new home after its 30 employees out grew their previous premises.
Plans for 1,500 homes approved as Ebbsfleet Valley development rolls on
DEVELOPMENT of the Ebbsfleet Valley mini-town near Swanscombe rolls on with plans for 1,500 new homes given the go-ahead.
Javelin train flies to London in just 37 minutes
A high-speed train that will be used to transport spectators to the 2012 Olympic Games made its first journey into London this morning.
County Hall vows backing for Kent businesses
Kent County Council leader Paul Carter this week launched a wide-ranging 10-point plan aimed at pumping some energy into the county’s beleaguered business community.
Funding Boost For Growth Town Ashford
Ashford’s growth plans were given a £4 million boost today following a Government announcement. The Ashford’s Future partnership bid for extra funds in October 2008 was confident that the Kent town is making significant progress and that confidence was rewarded.
Strong demand still for good quality jobs candidates
Jobseekers face a bleak New Year, according to a survey revealing that employers’ willingness to take on new people has plunged to a 15-year low. But a rosier picture has emerged from Kent-based Acorn Recruitment, which claims there is still strong demand for good quality candidates across the county.
Business chiefs welcome cut in interest rate
Business chiefs have welcomed the Bank of England’s Christmas "mistletoe" of a one per cent cut in base rate.
£1.6m boost for west Kent rural economy
Farmers, rural businesses and communities in west Kent will benefit from £1.6 million in funding support in the next five years after the South East of England Development Agency approved a bid by the West Kent Partnership.
Drive to boost young people's skills
Kent County Council is to put pressure on firms to take on apprentices.
The authority is place apprenticeships at the heart of a drive to improve education, employment and skills.
The authority is place apprenticeships at the heart of a drive to improve education, employment and skills.
Medway Regeneration - Five Towns Make A City
Leading architect Sir Terry Farrell launched his vision for Medway today in a report called "Five Towns Make a City".
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.
Medway could be used as model for regeneration
Shadow Thames Gateway minister Stewart Jackson came to Medway to take in the towns’ multi-million pound redevelopment sites.
Work under way on multi-million pounds innovation centre
Work begins today on a £7.3million centre designed to create new hi-tech businesses and jobs.
Freight Transport Association - Investing in people pays off
Making staff a core part of its business has won a Kent based organisation a prestigious national award.
Hundreds of jobs created at Kent stores
Discount supermarket Aldi is to create around 500 new jobs across the county over the next few years.
Three firms aiming to touch down at Lydd
News that three aviation sector companies are in talks with London Ashford Airport about the possibility of establishing operations at the Lydd site has come at a highly sensitive time.
Olympian asks public to name new high-speed trains
Olympian Steve Backley has teamed up with a rail firm to help name its new 140mph high-speed trains after British sporting greats.
Why investment should go beyond the credit crunch
Business chiefs have launched a campaign to persuade investors to look beyond the credit crunch and pump cash into Kent and Medway’s biggest regeneration scheme.
They claim that short-term financial woes should not obscure the huge potential for making money in Kent Thameside - Dartford and Gravesham, Medway and Swale - when things improve.
They claim that short-term financial woes should not obscure the huge potential for making money in Kent Thameside - Dartford and Gravesham, Medway and Swale - when things improve.
North Kent partnership plans to build 5,000 homes
Kent Thameside Regeneration Partnership unveils its strategy for the Kent Thameside Waterfront at the Thames Gateway Forum
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.
Locate in Kent speaks out about empty rates proposals
Locate in Kent, the investment promotion agency for Kent and Medway has spoken out about the Chancellor’s changes to empty rates taxation on commercial buildings announced in the pre-Budget report. The agency supports the British Property Federation’s campaign against the taxes and has been lobbying with Kent County Council, local businesses and the Kent Developers Group for the abolition of the rates.
Kent to provide business Lifeblood to Thames Gateway
Thames Gateway Kent: Opportunities for Occupiers and Investors was launched on the main stage at Thames Gateway Forum at ExCel London on Wednesday 26 November at 2.30pm.
New Money for North Kent’s Green Projects
A major Dartford initiative designed to improve the town’s parkland is one of five projects across North Kent and Medway to benefit from more than £20m.
Business is Booming at Beechwood Business Park
WCR Property, a niche commercial property developer specialising in sustainable office buildings, announces even more businesses relocating to their new Dover business park development, Beechwood Business Park.
Vital cog in south-east's future
The Thames Gateway should be "a knowledge-driven, well- connected, globally competitive region, which demonstrates how economic growth and environmental sustainability work together".
TV stars back theatre's £25m plan
Two stars of British stage and screen acting have added their support to a campaign to redevelop a Kent theatre.
Medway attractions win tourism awards
Two of Medway’s most popular and enduring visitor attractions have been given “Highly Commended” awards at the South East Tourism ExSEllence Awards 2008.
Liberty Property Trust UK Ltd - New art initiative
Kings Hill is to provide a boost to South East artists by organising exhibitions of their work in its flagship office buildings.
Business Development Grant - Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council will now be able to help businesses in the Tunbridge Wells Borough to apply for a business development grant under a national grant scheme, Grant for Business Investment (GBI) 2007-2013. The aim is to help businesses in the Tunbridge Wells area to invest in equipment and technology to expand, modernise, or change to become more productive and sustainable, with the objective to secure skilled employment in the area.
Why we need to believe in Kent businesses
Kent jobs for Kent workers!
That's the pledge of Kent County Council as it appeals to local authorities to back Kent businesses and their employees during these dark economic times.
That's the pledge of Kent County Council as it appeals to local authorities to back Kent businesses and their employees during these dark economic times.
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).
ZestST Gets Gold
ZestST, one of the largest full service marketing communications agencies in the South East, has been crowned ‘Medway Business of the Year 2008’ at the 24th Annual Medway Business Awards, sponsored by Lloyds TSB.
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 - '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.
