After a lengthy process, we are delighted to announce that key legal agreements have now been completed. This marks a significant step forward for Docking Station, the University of Kent’s ground-breaking hub for digital creative industries, paving the way for construction to begin.
Over the next 18 months the project will see the Police Section House, a Grade II listed Scheduled Ancient Monument at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, transformed into a cutting-edge creative production facility and a driver for the development of immersive technologies in the South East.
The recent completion of leases between Homes England, Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, and the University of Kent signals the start of building works. Acquiring the Police Section House from Homes England, brings the building under the management of the Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust ensuring its future preservation as part of the wider Historic Dockyard Chatham estate, and enables the University to commence refurbishment.
Richard Morsley, CEO of the Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust says:
“The signing of this lease marks a significant milestone for the Trust. By bringing this important historic building under our care, as our 48th scheduled ancient monument, it reinforces our commitment to preservation through reuse. Docking Station will be a powerful example of how we combine preservation with innovation, ensuring the Historic Dockyard is safeguarded for future generations.”
Caroline Dennis, University of Kent’s Project Director for Docking Station:
“We are now all set to start on site and deliver this transformative project by Summer 2026. Docking Station will be a unique hub, equipped with industry-standard production technologies, including virtual production and motion capture. This dynamic facility will enable local businesses, students, and the broader community to develop new skills in immersive technologies. It will also strengthen the thriving digital creative industries in Medway and the wider region as well as cementing the University of Kent’s commitment to Medway.
We want Medway residents to be involved in the project throughout the building process and over the next 18 months we will be offering a programme of creative ways for our community to get involved with Docking Station.”
The University of Kent, in collaboration with Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust and Medway Council, is leading the development of Docking Station through its Institute of Cultural and Creative Industries (iCCi).
This project is funded by the UK Government, National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and The Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust.