The Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Fay Gooch officially opens Maidstone Innovation Centre

Kent’s latest high-specification business destination the Maidstone Innovation Centre (MIC), is now officially open for business.

Cutting the ribbon to open the doors to new tenants today (Thursday 10 March), was the Mayor of Maidstone – Cllr Fay Gooch, who welcomed the opportunity to experience the first class facilities the Maidstone Innovation Centre has to offer.

Set over four storey’s, the 37,000ft2 the building’s design focuses on creating a positive work culture that inspires pride, energy, creativity and collaboration. The double height atrium reception, roof top terrace, kitchen and catering supplies on every floor, and multiple break-out areas are just some of the features.

Commenting on the state of the art facilities, the Mayor said: “I am so pleased to officially open these first class facilities, with amazing offices, state of the art technology along with great support and expertise.”

Environmental impact was a key concern during construction of the MIC. Contractors Rydon reported that 98% of waste was reused or recycled offsite and applied Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method processes, which ensures best practice for the environmental performance of buildings.

The Mayor added: “I was delighted to learn about the ‘green credentials’ of the building. Along with the ‘living wall’ which comprises more than 10,000 plants which should bloom all year round, attracting bees and butterflies, it has solar panels fitted on the roof providing cleaner, more efficient energy and has charging pods for eight cars with capacity for more in the future. It is all such great news for the businesses based here that will enable them to enjoy their place of work even more.”

Situated in the Kent Medical Campus, one of the UK’s most esteemed Academic Health Science Network environments, the MIC is located in the perfect place for connectivity (next to the M20 J7).

Leader of Maidstone Borough Council, Cllr David Burton added: “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.”

A Maidstone Borough Council initiative, the MIC is a Maidstone Borough Council initiative was part funded by the European Regional Development Fund 2014- 2020 and offers state of the art facilities with flexible working space, offices, meeting rooms and conference facilities. Part of the Kent Medical Campus, it is aimed at businesses working in the life science, healthcare and medical sectors.

The MIC received £5.7m of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (and in London the intermediate body Greater London Authority) is the Managing Authority for European Regional Development Fund. Established by the European Union, the European Regional Development Fund helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations.

For more information visit:  https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding.