The site director of Kent Science Park business estate, home to more than 60 technology companies, is to retire at the end of next month after eight years in the post.

James Speck, 65, has seen the number of people working at the high-security labs and offices in Sittingbourne grow from less than 900 people in 2008 to more than 1,650 today.

“The biggest challenges have been to put Kent Science Park on the map and help growing businesses,” said Mr Speck.

“I think by and large we have been very successful.

“I shall miss Kent Science Park and its many characters, all of whom have made my tenure here one of the most challenging and enjoyable periods of my career.

“I would like to thank everyone on the park for their support over the years. It has been a real pleasure and I wish all our tenants continued good fortune.

“Kent Science Park is a real success story.”

In his time as site director, Kent Science Park has become home to firms like AbBaltis, which supplies clean blood plasma to research companies, winning a Queen’s Award for International Trade last year.

Managing director Giedre Brandao said: "In the five years we have been at Kent Science Park, I have seen it go from strength to strength under James' leadership.

"It has become a very prestigious place to locate your business.

"What is special about James is he has a knack for spotting promising businesses and nurturing them through growth..." - Giedre Brandao, AbBaltis

"What is special about James is he has a knack for spotting promising businesses and nurturing them through growth.

"He will be missed and we wish him all the best in his retirement."

The park is the base for a variety of different industries. Only 60% are in the science sectors.

The park revealed a 20-year masterplan last year, aimed to increase the number of jobs at the site by 4,150.

The proposals involve building new offices, between 300 and 400 flats and pitches for Sittingbourne Football Club.

However, these were thrown into doubt last month when the park’s owner, Mars Pension Fund, put the site and four others up for sale for £95 million.

Michael Cripps, national operations director of Fasset, the facilities management firm which looks after the park, said: “In James’ time on the park, he has been fundamental in the maturation of the life science and technological sectors at Kent Science Park.

“He has built strong relationships both locally and across the region, essential to our tenants.

“I think I speak on behalf of many when I say he will be greatly missed and we wish him the very best for a long and healthy retirement.”