Bay business hub gets cash injection

The Neptune Co-working Hub aims to provide supported workspace for people who are thinking of starting a business, who have recently started one up or who have been trading for some time.

It’s a joint project between Canterbury City Council and the Herne Bay Coastal Community Team. The grant, awarded from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Coastal Communities Fund, covers more than half of the total cost of £384,000.

The former city council offices in William Street will be the location for the hub, which is set to open later this year.

It will feature co-working office space, meeting rooms and training rooms. Businesses based there will be provided with guidance and training, as well as the support of an on-site manager.

Head of Property and Regeneration at Canterbury City Council, Caroline Hicks, said: “We’re incredibly pleased our funding bid to the government has been agreed. This project aims to promote entrepreneurship in Herne Bay at every stage, and we estimate more than 20 new jobs will be created and around 30 more will be protected.

“In particular, the focus will be on supporting the development and long-term retention of jobs in the town that are not reliant on tourism.

“It’s an exciting initiative and we’re looking forward to working with the Herne Bay Coastal Community Team to create a long-lasting, vibrant and highly successful business hub right in the heart of Herne Bay.”

Published: 29 March 2019