Kent Science Park is preparing for an economic upturn with plans to create space for a further 100 hi-tech jobs.

A £2.75 million scheme to put up two new buildings aims to meet demand from potential new tenants as well as achieving more space for existing scientific businesses on the Sittingbourne site.

Park chiefs estimate that the latest growth phase would boost the number of people employed by 100 to more than 1,300.

The park is seen as leading the way in Kent in creating hi-tech knowledge-based jobs, an area that has seen growth despite the downturn.

But previous expansion plans have proved controversial, with local residents objecting to the likely increase in traffic in nearby Ruins Barn Road.

A previous application for similar buildings was thrown out last year on highway grounds. But KSP has carried out further traffic surveys and urged tenants, employees and visitors to be considerate to local residents and other road users.

The latest application proposes moving the 30 mph zone 50 metres south of its current position in Ruins Barn Road and the construction of a gateway feature to show road users that they are entering a residential area.

It says these measures would be reinforced by the installation of an interactive 30mph speed sign. Kerb adjustments and revised road markings at the junction of Tunstall Road and Cromers Road would slow traffic and improve pedestrian safety, park chiefs claim.

James Speck, site director, said: "These proposals signal our commitment to being well-placed for the economic upturn by providing effective accommodation for new high-tech, engineering, ICT and environmental based technology companies."

The proposed new buildings (26,222 sq ft and 10,747 sq ft) will be located within the existing security fence.

Designed as single storey buildings, the new Units would match the design and function of the first phase of Tech Units, which were completed in April 2008.

Mr Speck added: "Today's science and knowledge-based businesses have stringent demands when it comes to the design and fit out of their premises. It is vital that we develop these buildings in order to attract new, and larger, companies."

He added: "Many of our tenants continue to ask for additional space on site. The fact that we are able to make it happen for them means we will retain the jobs in Swale."