NORTH Kent is celebrating the arrival of three new businesses with the creation of more than 100 jobs.

Winpac (UK), part of a European sheeting and logistics group, is setting up in Thamesport on the Isle of Grain, Celessence, a manufacturer of micro-capsules for industry, is moving onto Medway City Estate; and Greenman Toners, a recycler of printer toner cartridges, has chosen Meridian Park, Rochester, for its new operation.

Paul Wookey, chief executive of Locate in Kent, the inward investment agency, welcomed the three decisions. He said: "Medway's reputation as a highly effective business location is well established. Each of these three companies will enhance the area's manufacturing sector and be a welcome boost for the local economy."

The arrival of Winpac at Thamesport will see the construction of a 30,000ft factory to house the sophisticated machinery used by Winpac to sheet, palletise and shrink-wrap paper and board products to customer requirements.