A company which specialises in the acoustics of buildings is to build a £4million new complex on the site of a former cement works in Medway.

Oscar Acoustics is currently based in West Kingsdown. It will move its headquarters to the new site once work is complete having "outgrown" its home.

The 44-year-old company, which describes itself as "architectural acoustic experts" will build on the former Cemex site, east of Formby Road in Halling.

It has secured planning permission for a new 16,200 ft sq building which will be designed by architects Urban & Rural.

Comprising of two buildings, one will be the main office building and warehouse, while the other will comprise of six, two-storey units to house its innovation team and international sales hub.

Ben Hancock, managing director of Oscar Acoustics, said: “As a growing business we’ve been trying to find new premises for over five years. Due to the scarcity of available commercial space we decided building our own HQ would offer the best solution.

"We were keen to stay within the Kent area, as it’s where our business was born and bred and we wanted to remain loyal to our highly skilled in-house teams who have been with us, in some cases, upwards of 20 years. We’re also committed to offer good quality jobs to local people without them needing a car to get to work and the location of this site, near good transport links, offers this.”

Inward investment company Locate in Kent helped locate the site.

Its CEO, Gavin Cleary, added: “This planning application is a pivotal moment for the company in supporting future investment and their next phase of growth. Ultimately, this is great news for Kent with the opportunity for more jobs. It's also a real vote of confidence in the county."

Building on the site is expected to begin in August, with an estimated completion of mid-2023.