£20 Million Construction Begins on Thanet Earth’s Seventh High-Tech Glasshouse

Thanet Earth, the UK’s largest glasshouse complex based in Birchington, Kent, boasts a total growing area of 45 hectares and currently grows 400m tomatoes, 33 million cucumbers and 24 million peppers a year.

Thanet Earth has officially commenced construction on its seventh glasshouse, marking a significant expansion in its state-of-the-art horticultural operations. The new development will add 6.5 hectares of lit production space dedicated to tomato cultivation, taking their total growing area to 51.5ha. The new glasshouse should grow in the region of 150m additional tomatoes on the site each year. This marks the final glasshouse construction approved under the site’s original planning permission, with completion targeted for November 2025.

Dutch horticultural specialist BOM, a long-standing partner of Thanet Earth, has been appointed as the principal contractor for the TG7 build. BOM has previously constructed three of the six existing glasshouses at the Birchington site and has been involved in Thanet Earth’s development since 2008. A member of the Atrium Agri group, BOM brings extensive experience from other large-scale UK projects, including a 20-hectare glasshouse site, one of the key factors in their selection for this milestone project.

Site groundwork began in March, and the glasshouse framework is now being erected. The project remains on schedule, with a target to have the structure “planting ready” by the end of November.

A unique feature of the TG7 design is enhanced wind resistance. The gable facing the Thanet Way has been specifically reinforced to withstand strong winds. To minimize visual impact and protect the structure, a new line of trees has been planted along the roadside as a natural windbreak.

Health and safety remains a top priority. Thanet Earth has engaged a Westgate-based health and safety consultancy to oversee site practices and ensure rigorous safety standards are maintained throughout the build.

As part of its commitment to the local economy, Thanet Earth is working with local tradespeople, including groundworkers, electricians, and builders, reinforcing its dedication to supporting regional businesses and employment.

Chris Butler, Managing Director of Thanet Earth said “The development of our seventh glasshouse is a significant milestone for Thanet Earth and a clear demonstration of our continued investment in UK food production. Strengthening our capacity to grow more fresh produce here in Britain is vital for long-term food security, reducing our dependence on imports, and meeting consumer demand sustainably.”