KENT Science Park has a new boss.

James Speck, 56, will head up the team at the hi-tech Sittingbourne complex as it enters a new phase in its development.

He will manage a 14-strong team on the site that is home to 80 businesses.

As site director, he will also work closely with local authorities and residents on controversial plans to expand the park with 4,500 homes as a way of funding a business expansion that could see a further 5,000 jobs come to the area, as well as a new road link between the M2 and A2.

Andrew Bull of LaSalle Investment Management, the company that manages Kent Science Park, said: "We are delighted that James has joined us, his property experience and knowledge of Kent made him an obvious choice for this important job at such an exciting time in the development of the park.

"At the heart of his role is ensuring that we promote Kent Science Park to the scientific community and nurture our existing tenants to help them grow."

Mr Speck, who lives near Snodland, was previously estates director at Merchant Square, the office, residential and retail development in West London.

Mr Speck said: "Kent Science Park is already making a major contribution to the local economy in terms of the jobs and businesses it supports, both on site and within a borough which has not had the happiest of recent history.

"I am looking forward to playing my part in Kent Science Park's long term success."