Frequently Asked Questions

Is Locate in Kent able to help any company?

Yes. We are experienced in helping a wide range of companies, from small start-ups, to Kent companies looking to expand and large global companies interested in expansion or relocation. Click here for more information about how we can help.

Is financial assistance available for companies investing or expanding in East Kent?

Yes. Financial assistance is available. East Kent is one of only two areas in the South East where companies may be eligible for financial support. The Selective Finance for Investment in England ‘SFIE' scheme provides grants for capital investment in property, plant and machinery for companies located in or relocating to, designated parts of Kent & Medway. Click here for more information.

Can you help me find a suitable property or land for my business?

Yes. East Kent offers a wide range of readily available properties and serviced land. Click here to access our interactive property search. If you cannot find what you need, contact us enquiries@east-kent.co.uk

Which universities are in East Kent?

There are four universities - University of Kent at Canterbury, University Centre Folkestone, University College for the Creative Arts and Canterbury Christ Church University, with between them campuses in Canterbury and Broadstairs. Between them, they offer a wide range of courses and specialisms from a large number of locations across Kent - not just their three main sites. They also undertake major research projects. Click here for more information.

What is the population and size of the workforce in East Kent?

377,900 residents and more than 168,000 workers. Click here for more information on workforce.

I am a student looking for information for a project, can you help me?

This website contains a lot of information. Please have a good look at it. If you cannot find what you need, please contact us and be as specific as possible about what information you need. Contact us at enquiries@east-kent.co.uk

What are transport links like in East Kent?

East Kent is situated between London and continental Europe. The opening of Ebbsfleet International has given East Kent faster links to London. From Canterbury, London is about one hour away by car or train, Heathrow Airport is 105 minutes, Gatwick 73 minutes, Stansted 94 minutes and City Airport 92 minutes. In the other direction, Eurotunnel shuttles take 35 minutes from Folkestone to Calais, and Eurostar trains takes around one hour from Ashford to Paris or Brussels. Click here for information on the East Kent transport infrastructure.

Which well-known companies are located in East Kent?

These include Cummins, Dover Harbour Board, Fuji Film, Hornby, Infratil, Megger, Pfizer, Saga, SeaFrance, Sharp Interpack. Click here for more information on case studies.

Is East Kent expensive?

Although in the South East of England, East Kent is very cost-effective in terms of property and land, labour costs and housing, especially compared with London and areas to the west of the capital, but also compared with other UK cities. Commercial property costs are up to 80% cheaper than in London. It has an affordable workforce, with salaries around a fifth cheaper than the South East average and a third of the cost of London salaries. House prices are 30% cheaper than London. Click here for more information.

Which companies has Locate in Kent helped?

Click here to view several examples in our case studies section. (KWC, Paget, Seafrance & Sharp Interpack). Click here for more information.