Local Growth Plan Workshops: Business Engagement Success
Over 200 stakeholders help shape the future of Kent and Medway
More than 200 stakeholders came together last week to help shape the future of Kent and Medway’s economy. The Kent and Medway Economic Partnership (KMEP) hosted a series of Local Growth Plan workshops between 11 and 15 May 2026, bringing together a wide range of partners from across the region.
A collaborative approach to shaping the Local Growth Plan
Participants included representatives from businesses, universities, councils, colleges, and voluntary and community sector organisations. Through these sessions, stakeholders shared valuable insights and expertise, helping to ensure the Local Growth Plan reflects the real priorities, challenges and opportunities facing Kent and Medway.
Building on the existing evidence base, the workshops provided additional insight from those working across the local economy. In turn, they created space for meaningful discussion and collaboration, enabling stakeholders to contribute directly to the development of the plan.
Workshop programme and sector focus
The programme featured a mix of sector-specific workshops alongside a cross-cutting session, each focusing on key drivers of economic growth:
- Digital & Technologies – University of Kent (11 May)
- Agri-food & Agritech – The Orchards, East Malling (13 May)
- Energy – University of Greenwich, Medway Campus, Chatham (14 May)
- Ports, Transport & Logistics – Ashford International Hotel (15 May)
- Cross-cutting Priorities Session – Ashford (15 May)
Throughout the week, attendees explored both sector-specific challenges and wider economic opportunities. Importantly, these discussions helped to identify shared priorities across the region.
Key themes emerging from discussions
Across all sessions, several consistent themes emerged. In particular, conversations focused on:
- Skills and workforce development
- Infrastructure and connectivity
- Innovation and business growth
- Opportunities to strengthen nationally significant assets in food, trade, energy and digital industries
Furthermore, the scale of participation and the high level of engagement demonstrated a clear and shared ambition to drive sustainable, long-term economic growth across Kent and Medway.
Next steps for the Local Growth Plan
The insights gathered will directly shape the development of the Local Growth Plan. For example, they will inform a clear long-term vision for the region’s economy, as well as help identify a focused pipeline of investable projects and priorities.
Looking ahead, Metro Dynamics will draw on this stakeholder feedback to support the plan’s development over the coming months. In addition, further opportunities for business input are planned for September, and KMEP encourages stakeholders to remain involved and continue sharing their views.
If you would like to contribute or find out more, please get in touch using our contact form.
Thank you to contributors
KMEP would like to thank all attendees, partners and facilitators who contributed to the success of the workshops. Their input will play a vital role in shaping a strong, investable and sustainable future for Kent and Medway.
