Doka - the Austrian-owned company that makes formwork used in the construction industry - is expanding.

But that looks like bad news for Maidstone, where its UK headquarters is currently based.

The firm has commissioned construction firm WW Martin to build it new premises in Sittingbourne.

The purpose-built centre will be located on the Eurolink Business Park, which the company said it had chosen for its good transport links.

The new base will comprise 30,000 square metres of insulated warehouses, together with hard-standing for offices, storage and parking.

The facility should be ready by the end of the year - when the company will close its existing base in Heath Road, Boughton Monchelsea.

The company has been operating from the village since 1997.

The firm said that all the Maidstone staff had accepted the opportunity to transfer to the new base in Sittingbourne.

A company spokesman said: "This is an exciting time for Doka UK and marks a huge milestone for the company, its employees and customers who will all benefit from the opportunities this expansion presents.

"Doka has worked hard to find new premises in Kent in order to continue to benefit the Kent economy.

"The relocation to Sittingbourne is a result of the businesses success and the simple fact that the Maidstone location does not allow the space for the business to grow further on the site."

Doka also has offices in Sheffield and Glasgow.

Doka operates in 70 countries and employs 6,700 workers worldwide.