The home of more than 70 businesses celebrated its fifth anniversary with a cake cutting by the Sheriff of Canterbury.

Cllr Tony Austin marked the occassion for the Canterbury Innovation Centre, which provides workspace for mainly start-up companies.

Owned by East Kent Spatial Development Company, the hub opened in November 2009 when nine companies moved in. Today, 73 firms use the centre.

Managed by Basepoint Business Centres, about 220 people work there.

Ancon Technologies Ltd are its longest-serving tenants, having moved in during its opening month.

Director Dr Boris Gorbunov said: “We have immensely enjoyed being based at Canterbury Innovation Centre, and found its management team very helpful and highly professional – we can only say good words about all of the Basepoint staff on site.

“The centre has a variety of offices and workshops, which has provided flexibility of space whilst our company has grown.

“The networking opportunities, fundraising and other social occasions are also beneficial to our growing company and are organised perfectly by the centre management team.”

Centre manager Jo Clark said: “We’re extremely proud to be celebrating five incredibly successful years at the centre.

“Despite opening during a difficult economic climate, we have thrived and provided workspace to some truly brilliant local businesses who are doing great things for the area.

“Thank you to all of our licensees, both past and present, and we look forward to the next five years.”

Offices can be reserved from £75 a week.

The centre is on the University of Kent campus in Canterbury.