More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
The Prime Minister has today praised the success of the new Discovery Park in Kent, saying it is an example of how the private and public sector can work together to boost jobs.
He was responding to a question posed by Thanet South MP Laura Sandys during Prime Minister's Questions.
The Pfizer park closed in 2011, but the 300-acre site in Sandwich has since been transformed into the Discovery Park.
It has become a key part of the area's Enterprise Zone, a government-sponsored initiative in which companies are able to take advantage of discounted business rates and a simplified planning regime.
The park has become home to a range of new companies, many specialising in life sciences and biotechnology.
Ms Sandys said the site had been transformed by the success of a joint venture involving the private and public sector.
"With the commitment of £40million for small and medium enterprises, we now have 1,400 jobs," she said.
In reply, Mr Cameron said: "It was a blow when Pfizer made its decision and many people thought that would be the end of the site.
"The Enterprise Zone is working well and has attracted many high tech companies. If we work with the private sector, we can get good results.
"Pfizer itself has also retained several hundred jobs there."
What do you think of the Discovery Park's impact on Kent? Join the debate below.
