Maidstone Innovation Centre officially opens

Business destination Maidstone Innovation Centre opened its doors to welcome their new tenants yesterday. 

On 4 March 2020, official ground-breaking took place to mark the commencement of construction of the new Maidstone Innovation Centre. 

Maidstone Borough Council stated at the time that the centre would act as a “engaging and vibrant business destination” in the middle of the Kent Medical Campus.

Originally a Maidstone Borough Council initiative, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) aided with the funding of the centre by granting them ​​£5.7 million.

Yesterday, Cllr Fay Gooch, the Mayor of Maidstone, cut the ribbon to open the doors to tenants looking to occupy the new first-class facilities the centre has to offer. 

The building itself is four-storeys high and is estimated to be 37,000ft². 

Maidstone Borough Council said that the centre’s design is focused on creating a ‘positive work culture’ that will help inspire those inhabiting the building.

The main features of the centre are the double height atrium reception, rooftop terrace, kitchen and catering supplies, and break-out rooms.

In addition to this, there is a ‘living wall’ accommodating more than 10,000 plants, attracting bees and butterflies. 

To maximise the positive environmental impact, solar panels have also been fitted on the roof to provide cleaner, more efficient energy.

The Mayor commented: “It gives me great pleasure to officially open these first class facilities, with amazing offices, state of the art technology along with great support and expertise.”

The Maidstone Innovation Centre is situated in the centre of the Kent Medical Campus, which is considered an esteemed Academic Health Science Network environment. 

Cllr David Burton, the Leader of Maidstone Borough Council, said: “To see the Innovation Centre open today is great news for Maidstone. This is a fantastic location designed to nurture start-ups and growing businesses making a real difference to people’s lives. It offers the highest office specification and is situated in a superb location.  

“There is no doubt that it is a fantastic business asset to Maidstone and we’re looking forward to welcoming an interesting mix of tenants, leading the way in their fields. The MIC provides them with the best in terms of facilities, support and expertise.”