ECD OSC SCRAIP Report

ECD.140929.42.1

The Cabinet Member for Economic and Commercial Development be recommended to consider the Maidstone East site as a possible location for the Enterprise Hub, prior to the decision being taken, as this may help to encourage development in this area.

29-Oct-2014

Cabinet Member for Economic & Commercial Development

The need for an Enterprise Hub is immediate. Any redevelopment of the Maidstone East site would take several years. Further, an outline planning application is currently under consideration for a 10,000m2 mixed development. Any development of the site is reliant on securing a major anchor store. The site is allocated for retail (not employment).

Karen Franek

ECD.140929.42.2

The Cabinet Member for Economic and Commercial Development be recommended to consider the following options:

a. starting off with a smaller scale Enterprise Hub located on council premises; and

b. a short term leasehold property for the Enterprise Hub;

As the committee recognises the urgent need for such a facility to support business start-ups in the borough.

29-Oct-2014

Cabinet Member for Economic & Commercial Development

Officers are continuing to look at a smaller scale business centre as part of the overall office accommodation project and future use of the gateway. A report will be brought forward before the end of the financial year with proposals.

Karen Franek

ECD.140929.42.3

The Cabinet Member for Economic and Commercial Development bring the full Cabinet Member Decision to the Committee before the decision is taken.

29-Oct-2014

Cabinet Member for Economic & Commercial Development

It is planned to take the report to the 12th November meeting. As agreed by the Chairman of O&S the report will be circulated to members of O&S for them to ask questions either prior to the Cabinet meeting on 12th November and/or to attend the meeting.

Karen Franek