Together with our partners at Mid Kent College and Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, we were delighted to welcome the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce (KICC) and their Patrons to the Dockyard on Tuesday, 18 March, for an exclusive Patrons Supper. The event provided an opportunity for business leaders across Kent and Medway to explore the growing creative sector at the site, including the transformative Docking Station.
The future of creativity in Kent and Medway
Docking Station is an ambitious partnership between the University of Kent, Medway Council, and Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust (CHDT). This project is transforming an historic police building into a cutting-edge creative arts facility, featuring virtual production and motion capture technologies. Designed for use by local businesses, students and communities, Docking Station is set to be a catalyst for innovation, training and industry growth in the region.
Home to the University of Kent’s Medway campus, the Dockyard is already a focal point for the region’s creative industries, and this event was an exciting chance to showcase its potential. Guests had the opportunity to test out VR technology in our Smitheries Motion Capture Studio, explore CHDT’s new LEGO-based Brickwrecks exhibition, and learn more about Docking Station, which is set to open next year.
A shared vision for economic growth
David Sefton, Director of the Institute of Cultural and Creative Industries, emphasised the importance of business collaboration:
“As a University, we are always looking for opportunities to maximise our regional impact. It was fantastic to share our vision for Docking Station with fellow Chamber Patrons and inspire them to consider how, together, we can lead positive change both in Medway and across the region.”
Tudor Price, CEO of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, reinforced the project’s economic significance:
“The UK is a world leader in creative and digital arts and the facilities being created here at the Dockyard will ensure the sector within Kent and Medway has the opportunity of playing an ever more significant role in this world class industry. Training the next generation through state-of-the-art technology provides an important competitive foundation for the local area and will drive economic growth. This is a fantastic project and demonstrates the value of investment for the future.”
How businesses can get involved
Businesses can help shape the future of the creative industries in Kent and Medway by supporting Docking Station through our Make Your Mark campaign.
By naming a brick, stair, or window of the historic police building, businesses can leave a lasting legacy while directly supporting the transformation of this iconic space. Donations will help fund Docking Station’s development, ensuring it becomes a thriving hub for creativity and industry. Find out how you can make your mark at www.kent.ac.uk/giving/make-your-mark. For sponsorship and collaboration opportunities, please contact Sam Scott at s.scott@kent.ac.uk.