Invest in West Kent: The South East’s Most Connected and Economically Dynamic Region

If you're seeking a location with exceptional infrastructure, access to talent, vibrant communities, and a lifestyle that doesn't compromise on quality, look no further than West Kent.

West Kent is rapidly emerging as one of the UK’s most attractive destinations for investment, development, and relocation. Long celebrated for its stunning countryside, rich heritage, vibrant town centres, and historic strengths in legal and financial services, the region is now thriving as a dynamic economic hub of innovation and connectivity at the heart of South East England.

Perfectly positioned between London, Gatwick Airport, and the Channel ports, West Kent offers businesses unparalleled connectivity and access to UK and international markets. The region is the most productive in Kent and Medway, generating a GDP of £15.12 billion and a GVA of £12.77 billion. Home to over 361,000 residents and 19,095 businesses, West Kent supports more than 204,000 jobs across diverse industries.

West Kent at a Glance

• £64,333 – Gross Value Added (GVA) per job

• 2.2% – Unemployment rate (well below the national average)

• 361,000 – Total population

• 48.7% – Residents qualified to NVQ4+ (degree level or higher)

• £15.12 billion – Total regional GDP

• £12.77 billion – Gross Value Added (GVA)

• 19,095 – Number of active businesses in the region

• 20 minutes – Fastest rail journey to London Bridge (from Swanley)

• 30 minutes – Average journey time to Gatwick Airport

• 11 million – Visitors welcomed in 2022

Exceptional Connectivity

West Kent’s strategic location ensures seamless travel for business and commuting. Direct rail services connect key towns like Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, and Tunbridge Wells to central London in under an hour. Gatwick Airport is within 45 minutes by car or train, and the M20 and M25 motorways provide easy access to the Greater London area, the Midlands, the South Coast, and mainland Europe.

This robust infrastructure has led to major growth in logistics and export-oriented operations, attracting global brands such as Amazon, DHL, AXA Healthcare, and Childrensalon.

A Hub of Talent and Innovation

One of West Kent’s standout features is its highly skilled workforce. Nearly 48% of residents hold qualifications at NVQ4 level or above, surpassing both the national average and that of surrounding regions. This talent pool is nurtured by outstanding local schools and close ties to top UK and international universities.

The region is home to growing knowledge-based industries, particularly in pharmaceuticals, creative industries, financial services, agri-tech, and ICT. These sectors thrive in an ecosystem supported by academic research, innovation hubs, and a collaborative business culture.

Entrepreneurial Spirit and Business Support

West Kent has one of the highest self-employment rates in the UK (16.6% vs 9.9% national average), reflecting a dynamic entrepreneurial environment. From coworking spaces in urban centres to expansive business parks and commercial developments, the region offers flexible options for startups, SMEs, and global enterprises alike.

Initiatives like Locate in Kent and Invest West Kent provide hands-on support for business relocation, growth, and property searches.

West Kent is brimming with commercial and development opportunities:

• Bevan Place, Swanley – 1.71 hectares of mixed-use potential in a town centre location.

• Otford Road Business Park – A proposal for four light industrial units and a drive-through.

• Salters Heath Business Centre – Modern offices in a picturesque rural setting near Sevenoaks.

• Sevenoaks – Land East of High Street – A 1.23-hectare site for leisure, education, hotel and residential development.

• Panattoni Park, Aylesford – A £180m logistics hub home to major brands like Evri and Amazon.

• GreenTech Hub for Advanced Horticulture – A cutting-edge agri-tech centre anchored by NIAB EMR in East Malling.

• Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells Town Centre Regenerations – Mixed-use commercial and residential development sites.

These developments offer exciting prospects for businesses seeking to expand or relocate to a future-ready region.

A High Quality of Life

West Kent is not just about business—it’s about balance. The area boasts two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty—the High Weald and Kent Downs—offering endless outdoor pursuits from hiking to heritage exploration. Historic towns like Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, and Tonbridge combine cultural vibrancy with rich architecture and modern amenities.

With top-rated schools, family-friendly attractions, and fast links to London and Brighton, the region is a perfect place for families and professionals alike.

Thriving Sector Clusters

West Kent has established itself as a powerhouse for several key industries:

• Creative Industries – Recognised as a South East creative hotspot, home to innovators like Childrensalon and Lime Tree Work Shop.

• Distribution and Logistics – Global logistics firms thrive here, thanks to Panattoni Park and proximity to key transport routes.

• Financial Services – A leading regional centre with close ties to London and Europe.

• Healthcare and Life Sciences – Anchored by institutions like Pembury Hospital and Salomons Institute, and private healthcare providers such as AXA Health.

• ICT and Digital – A growing post-pandemic cluster of tech entrepreneurs and freelancers.

• Agri-Tech and Wine – World-class research and rising vineyard investments, thanks to NIAB EMR and climate suitability.

A Region with Vision

West Kent is aiming high—with ambitions to become one of Northern Europe’s most sustainable, innovative regions. The growth of coworking spaces, investment in renewable energy, and integration of smart technologies reflect a region in motion.

Ready to Invest in West Kent?

If you're seeking a location with exceptional infrastructure, access to talent, vibrant communities, and a lifestyle that doesn't compromise on quality, look no further than West Kent.

To explore commercial properties or get expert support with relocation, visit InvestWestKent.com

West Kent: where business meets balance, and opportunity meets lifestyle.

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