At least 4,600 job vacancies will be created in part of Kent over the next 15 years, according to a report identifying skills shortages.

The Future Skills for Dover study identified construction, retail, logisitics and life sciences as key areas where young people need to be trained to accommodate growth in the area.

The report, commissioned by the Dover Business Forum, said addressing skills gaps in these sectors is the big challenge facing the district in the future.

It comes as the area prepares for the construction of 10,000 houses by 2026 and the completion of the St James retail and leisure development, creating 580 jobs.

Graham Razey, principal of East Kent College, launched the report in front of a business audience at the launch of the Skills 4 Dover expo in the town hall on Tuesday.

He said: “Delivering the skills which the local economy needs is of fundamental importance to our college.

"This report highlights the potential skills gaps we could see emerging in the Dover district, and helps us all plan accordingly.

“The report also shows the career opportunities available to the public right now, giving them the knowledge they need to develop the skills which Dover requires to continue to grow and flourish.”

The report also identified new job opportunities from the development of a new cargo terminal and logistics hub at Dover Western Docks and the construction of new manufacturing space at Discovery Park business hub in Sandwich.

It also pointed to the launch of a new visitor centre at the Betteshanger Country Park and the opening of the new Dover Maritime Skills Academy this week.

Cllr Paul Watkins, leader of Dover District Council, said: “We’re seeing record levels of investment in the Dover district creating jobs now and into the future.

"We want to make sure local people have the right skills for these jobs and this report underpins much of the investment taking place by local skills and training providers to support local employers.”