Turkey Mill Business Park

Latest News

  • Longstanding tenants Guide Dogs for the Blind expand at Turkey Mill

    7th February 2024

    The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association has had a base at Turkey Mill for over 20 years. It has expanded its operations over that time and has recently taken a further lease on the Estate of 3 James Whatman Court in addition to 4 & 6 James Whatman Court to have over 5,000 sq ft in total. The offices are used for the daily training of 25 dogs and associated administration. Recently appointed Estate Manager Sarah Elvy says "Covid caused significant problems for the Guide Dogs for both its breeding & training programs but we are absolutely delighted that it has recovered and its operations are expanding right here at Turkey Mill. As an estate team we will always do our best to accommodate growing tenants - flexibility is one of our core values. The Guide Dogs are truly wonderful tenants to have at Turkey Mill and certainly bring a smile to the wider business community as they traverse our beautiful grounds." Check out the crucial work that the Guide Dogs undertake:https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/contact-us/local-community-teams/maidstone-community-team/?fbclid=IwAR3S-km6kLXtRWW5yufdkw69LvykdDga_7uHVJxda2megbsrM043WfQTyCg #maidstoneoffices #maidstonebusiness #bearsted #ruraloffices #workinglife#heritageoffices #businessdestination #workinginkent #workinkent#worklifebalance #greenworking #gardens #awardwinninggardens #tenants #charitableorganisations #adoptapuppy #guidedogtraining

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  • Turkey Mill features on KMTV

    29th November 2023

    Last week Turkey Mill featured on Kent on Climate, KMTV 's evening show that highlights the best sustainability initiatives in Kent.Turkey Mill was championed for its working community, set amongst beautiful grounds, sustainability initiatives that include cultivating local wildlife and the natural environment within its 20 acres of greenery, and investment in other attributes such as E-bikes and EV chargers.#Watch the coverage by clicking on the video link: https://www.kentonline.co.uk/kmtv/video/kent-on-climate-wednesday-22nd-november-58078/Find out more about Turkey Mill here: www.turkeymill.co.uk#maidstoneoffices #maidstonebusiness #bearsted #ruraloffices#workinglife #heritageoffices #businessdestination #workinginkent#workinkent #worklifebalance #greenworking #gardens#awardwinninggardens #sustainabilityinkent #sustainabilityinMaidstone#sustainableoffices #greenoffices    

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  • Sarah Elvy joins our Turkey Mill on-site management team

    10th November 2023

    TURKEY MILL TEAM EXPANDS WITH PROPERTY EXPERT SARAH ELVY HIRED AS FULL TIME ESTATE MANAGER    Maidstone business park Turkey Mill has expanded the on-the-ground team with the appointment of property expert Sarah Elvy to lead on tenant engagement, property management and support services.   Sarah will take over from Director Dougie Lawson, who will be focussing on investment projects and improvement works for the 20-acre heritage estate, which is home to over 70 diverse businesses.   Sarah joins with over 20 years' experience in property, having worked for Martine Waghorn, original letting agents for Turkey Mill and is familiar with the estate and the community.   Turkey Mill is a unique business park, which has seen has seen demand for workspace particularly since Covid where people want to remain connected to London but have more time outside the city without the commute. tenants are drawn to the estate also thanks to its award-winning gardens and clean fresh air on top of modern workspace, ample parking and superfast digital connectivity.   Last month, Turkey Mill was awarded two gold certificates in the South & South East in Bloom Awards for Best Heritage Garden and Best Business Landscape, and won the Best Commercial Garden award by Maidstone In Bloom, a first for a business park in the UK.   On top of the beautiful working spaces provided will be a mission for sustainability and that's something that Dougie Lawson will be focusing on a part of his refined mission. As well as EV chargers and improved EPCs, Dougie will be overseeing a project determining water power and other alternative energy sources, reutilising the former famous paper mill's natural resources.   Dougie said: “We have undertaken a very substantial programme of refurbishment, modernisation & new development over the 25 years of our ownership and we are delighted to welcome Sarah, a property expert and Turkey Mill enthusiast as a very valued member of our team and to continue the evolution. The business community here is strong and requires a permanent friendly face as well as someone who can get things done and who has significant property asset management experience. Sarah has all these attributes in abundance and it's great news she has joined our team. I look forward to working with her and also focussing my attention on investment projects both short and long term at Turkey Mill."   Sarah says “I have had an association with Turkey Mill for many years, firstly working on site for Martine Waghorn, who were letting agents for Turkey Mill and later working for Caxtons in Hollingworth Court.  I'm delighted to have joined Turkey Mill Investments as their on-site Estate Manager and company representative. I believe that having the Estate Office team based on-site is a significant attraction to current and prospective tenants.   I can see the estate has undergone significant changes & upgrades yet still retains a great business community feel & offers quality office space to a variety of local business entrepreneurs as well as regional offices for companies of bigger groups.  I’m also really enjoying the food on offer from the Mill Café and the late Autumn sunshine in the walled garden. Mostly I’m excited about being able to bring my extensive commercial property knowledge & property management expertise to Turkey Mill, hopefully adding value to the estate management and tenant experience, while continuing to support the performance of such a thriving asset and local landmark site."   Turkey Mill has over 70 tenants including an on-site restaurant/cafe. It currently has a some flexible spaces available to rent. Visit www.turkeymill.co.uk for more information.    

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  • A look back in time at Turkey Mill from a previous resident

    3rd November 2023

    As followers of Turkey Mill will know, we love sharing stories from people who have a connection or interacted with our heritage estate over the years. We have previously heard from Paul Andrews from KentBizRadio on his job at the Mill and last week we received a lovely email from Betty Noakes, who used to live at Turkey Mill while it was a working paper mill, who says:   “My dad was the head gardener at Turkey Mill in the early Thirties to the late Sixties when it was a working paper mill.   I was born in 1947 and lived there until 1969 when my dad sadly died. One of the owners at the time, Major Pitt, helped my mum, brother and I get re-housed by the Council.   I now live at Allhallows with my husband, daughter and our pets.   I have many fond memories of the gardens at Turkey Mill, and it still feels like home. I very much enjoy seeing the mill and the gardens in their splendid current state and look out for the latest posts and stories on the website and on Turkey Mill’s social channels.  The gardens were my dad’s pride and joy and he’d be delighted to see them being so well looked after. It must be a very lovely place to work.   These pictures show my dad working in the lower greenhouse and the mill as it was back in the day.”  

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  • Turkey Mill wins two golds at South & South East in Bloom

    9th October 2023

    Maidstone Business Park Turkey Mill has been awarded two Golds in the latest South & South East in Bloom, making it three years in a row it has been recognised for its stunning gardens.   Turkey Mill is a 20-acre heritage estate, home to over 70 tenants who base their offices in the former Paper Mill where Whatman Paper was produced.    The gardens are immaculately curated all year round by head gardener Richard Gare and his team and are a massive attraction in the area.   The team were awarded Gold in two categories, Business Landscape and Heritage Garden, the latter placing Turkey Mill alongside the likes of leading tourist destinations Hever Castle, Arundel Castle, Denham Gardens and Osborne House on the Isle of Wight.   Chairman of SSEIB and Judge Peter Holman's feedback was superlative: "A most enjoyable visit and an opportunity to see a most important heritage site. It was good to see the historic elements of these private gardens being shared by a larger audience. The level of maintenance is high, given the size of the site, and the gardens team do an excellent job."   In addition, Turkey Mill also received the 'Best Commercial Garden' award in local organisation Maidstone in Bloom's awards, beating the Environment Agency's site at Allington Lock.   Dougie Lawson, Director at Turkey Mill Investments, owner of the estate, said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive these latest awards which are testament to the brilliant and hard work of head gardener Richard together with Tanya and their team. All year round the garden is bursting with in-season flowers, plants and wildlife and kept immaculately. Our tenants tell us that Turkey Mill is the most special place to work and we have no doubt that this is a major factor. We would also like to congratulate all the winners and are bursting with pride that our business park is mentioned in the same breath as major tourist attractions Hever Castle, Denham Gardens, Osborne House and Arundel Castle. Congratulations to all the winners."   Turkey Mill has an array of flexible workspaces available both heritage and new, nestled into the landscaping, surrounded by running water, fountains and of course, gardens.   

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  • Turkey Mill helps raise over £6,00 for Kent, Sussex & Surrey Air Ambulance with sponsorship of Bearsted's Classic Car Show

    8th August 2023

    Turkey Mill strikes again sponsoring another successful Bearsted Classic Car Show with over £6,000 raised to date and still rising On 23 July the annual Bearsted Classic Car and Vintage Retro Show took place on the Green with over £6k raised and funds still coming in. The Bearsted Car Show has been a regular feature on the Kent social calendar for almost 15 years but this year’s event has been the biggest success so far. Crowds gathered from far and wide once again, enjoying a wide variety of refreshments, retro clothing stands and of course to witness the outstanding array of vintage cars and their stories.  Philip Hill, founder of Classic Cars & Retro Vintage, said: “A big thank you to everyone who helped run the event, those who attended or advertised and especially Turkey Mill’s sponsorship whose support greatly helped to reach our total!! We have raised over £6,000 for the Kent Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance Trust, £3,500.00 of which was taken on the gates on the day by KSSAA volunteers.  Congratulations to all our prize winners who brought some real show stoppers for the crowds to admire. We are already looking forward to next year’s event – watch this space for the date.” This year the Best Post War 1945 Car (Turkey Mill Heritage Cup) was awarded to a Late entry Mercedes 230SL Pagoda 1966 owned by Paul and Debbie Atkinson of West Malling. The Turkey Mill team decided to launch the Heritage Cup last year as a nod to its heritage estate and the original foundations of Whatman Paper - today home to over 75 local businesses that enjoy stunning scenery and grade listed buildings kitted out with modern and flexible workspace. Other awards included The Most Desirable car, sponsored by Butchers Block Restaurant was presented to a No 62 Bean 14 hp. 1923. Dave Parfitt of Bredgar; and last but not least, a No 102 Ford Cpari Mk 1 1971 owned by Ann Magenis was rewarded with the Peter Wilson Annual Cup which was presented by daughter Sally George.  On the whole, another marvellous day with the event raising a record total of £6,000 so far for the Kent, Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance. Stay tuned for next year’s event!

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  • Turkey Mill triumphs at this year’s South and South East in Bloom competition

    17th October 2022

    It was a busy weekend for Turkey Mill, as they took home a Gold and the Judges Award in this year's South and South East in Bloom competition.  The annual competition which runs across counties Kent, Surrey, East and West Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, East and North Dorset and East Wiltshire, celebrates gardens as well as community spaces.  It was the first time they have entered the competition and Turkey Mill took home 'Gold' for Business Landscape Garden. Not only that, but out of an excess of 250 entries, Turkey Mill also took home the coveted 'Judges Award'.   Their category of Business Landscape also included the likes of Bluewater Shopping Centre and J P Morgan's office in Bournemouth.  Head Gardener, Richard Gare, said “We are thrilled with the results and delighted to have won both the Gold award in the Business Landscape category, as well as the Judges Award in this year’s competition. There aren’t many business parks which have award winning gardens and is something we pride ourselves in and spend a lot of time and effort maintaining.”  Comments on the assessors marking sheet included: “...the level of care and attention to detail is outstanding…” and “Of all the sites I visited this year this 20 acre site conveys an air of calm and tranquillity within a variety of landscapes.” The Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Derek Mortimer, who recently came to the gardens for the Mayor of Maidstone Garden Party, “Congratulations to the gardening team at Turkey Mill for all their hard work and dedication to the grounds over the last year.” 

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  • Introducing The Mill Café

    22nd September 2022

    Last month, Turkey Mill was delighted to welcome The Mill Café to their business oasis. Open from 7am to 4pm, this brand new café offers hot and cold beverages, as well as delicious bites that can be eaten in or taken away to your desk. Owned and managed by husband and wife team Kevin and Nina, the duo have been event caterers for almost 20 years and we are very pleased they have chosen to settle at Turkey Mill in their first retail venture. The Mill Café has quickly become popular with tenants since its official opening in early September, praised for its abundance. of seating both inside and out, perfect for in person team catch ups, as well as on-site meetings with its free Wi-Fi. The space has been given a full refresh with a bright, airy and spacious interior. The courtyard garden gives a nod to Turkey Mill’s historic past, including machinery from the old Paper Mill. Speaking to Kevin, who co-manages the café, he tells us: “We want to produce good quality food but at a reasonable price. Our aim is to keep the prices as low as we can without sacrificing taste and the product. We can also be flexible with our menu, and if we have the ingredients, we are happy to make dishes on request.” The café is still very much evolving, with Kevin discussing exciting plans for the future and potential seasonal menus. It is a welcome addition for tenants seeking a tasty lunch to enjoy in the newly refurbished café or award-winning Turkey Mill grounds.  

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  • Paul Andrews from Kent Business Radio tells us what it was like to work at Turkey Mill in 'The Turkey Mill Chronicles'

    23rd August 2022

    Turkey Mill Chronicles - Paul Andrews from BizRadio  Paul Andrews, host of BizRadio, recalls his time at Turkey Mill as a machine room boy and later a dryerman, when it used to operate as a paper mill.  I started working at Turkey Mill in July of 1970 when I was about 14 years old. I lived in Bearsted and had just left Vinters Boys School up the road. Many of my school mates went on to work at Turkey Mill as it was the nearest place to start working, and the bus stop for the school was just opposite, so we knew the Turkey Mill site well.  I applied for a job at the Mill and got called in for an interview, but not like an interview you and I would know today! I was simply lined up against a white wall by the general manager, along with all the other boys, and had my height measured. In the end I got the job as I was the smallest in the line up!  My first job at the Mill was a machine room boy, and my job was to crawl into the machines whilst they were still running and oil the bearings or get rid of any excess water - hence why they wanted me for my small build. It was incredibly hard physical work, but a lot of fun.  The lads who worked at Turkey Mill had great community spirit and we all got on really well, but we would get up to all sorts of mischief… During the spring and summer months, we would climb over the wall that adjoined Mote Park and go and play football in our lunch breaks. In the ‘beater room’ there were these large metal barrows on wheels, that used to move rags. We would sit in them and push each other down a hill. There was no way of slowing it down, so when we hit the wall at the end it would just throw you out. There were also these large crane hoists which would lift reels, which we also used to attach ourselves to and lift ourselves up into the air like we were on a film set.  The lake at Turkey Mill wasn’t like it is today, and was extremely overgrown. We used to tickle pike and fish, as well as use this old rowing boat, which did eventually sink. It was fun trying to explain to our bosses why we were soaking wet when we should’ve been working! The running of the Mill was still pretty Victorian and all steam driven. We didn’t have much to do with the managerial team, and we were very much separated. This, as I understand it, is very unlike Turkey Mill today with Dougie being one of the most approachable landlords and based on site! Some of the older workers liked to joke around with us boys, and would send us on these ‘stupid’ errands, like asking us to line up and ask for some ‘elbow grease’. There was also a lot of rough and tumble, and you did not garner much sympathy if you injured yourself. I was once pushed into a running machine and broke two of my fingers, but instead I was told off for potentially ruining the machine - a far cry from today’s commitment to health and safety. When I was 16, I got put onto shifts and worked as a dryerman. My job was in the dandy roll room, and I would put the watermarks on the paper. The dandy rolls which I used were almost 200 years old, and used for the French Napoleonic Paper and the 1950s bank notes. The amount of history at Turkey Mill was unbelievable and riveting..  In 1972, the miners strikes and 3 day weeks caused the Mill to shut and we were all laid off in 1973-74. This was due to us being steam driven so we needed coal, and we also couldn’t turn off the machines for the 3 day weeks.  My first wages when I worked there were £8.50 a week. I paid 5 shillings in tax and half a crown in what is now national insurance, and paid £2 to my mum for rent. The rest I would spend on cigarettes.  Looking at Turkey Mill today, it’s fantastic that the owners keep a large part of the heritage - the water still runs, the buildings remain and some of the previous machinery is persevered and on show. But, as a place to work, I imagine it’s a lot more magical with immaculately kept gardens, wildlife a plenty and modern workplaces behind the traditional facades. It’s a joy to return.  

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  • Turkey Mills sponsors Bearsted Classic Car Show with record entries and funds raised

    1st August 2022

    Turkey Mill sees unprecedented number of entries for its sponsored Bearsted Classic Car Show with record funds raised for the Kent, Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance The 24th of July marked the annual Bearsted Classic Car and Vintage Retro Show on the Green, which saw an unprecedented number of entries this year alongside a record total raised for the event’s chosen charity, the Kent, Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance.  With the sun shining, many flocked far and wide and enjoyed food and drink stalls, an array of antiques, vintage clothing stands, as well as some live swing dancing in addition to the magnificent line-up of cars together with their impressive back stories. The Bearsted Car Show has been a regular feature on the Kent social calendar for nearly 14 years, but this year saw more sign ups than ever before and an introduction of a waiting list for the first time.  This year was also the first time Turkey Mill sponsored the event, alongside regular sponsors Haynes Car Dealership and fellow newcomers Oakley Motorcycles. To mark the occasion, Turkey Mill introduced and presented a new award this year, the Turkey Mill Heritage Cup where entrants competed for the prize which recognised the motor with the most interesting history. Dougie Lawson, director of Turkey Mill and a keen vintage car enthusiast himself, brought along his 1936 Lagonda to the show, which attracted a number of admirers. He said: “It was wonderful to be part of such an iconic local event, and also raise so much money for a great charity. It was great to award the heritage cup this year and we look forward to it becoming a regular fixture. As owners of a large business park close to Bearsted, we are committed to engaging and supporting our local community and the heritage cup felt the right fit for us as we ourselves have a compelling history as a famous paper mill that we want to preserve as we move into the future” The Heritage Cup was awarded to a 1934 Vauxhall 14/6, owned by Danny and Pippa Matthews. The car which has been in Pippa’s family since 1969, was passed down to them by Pippa’s father. The car is over 90 years old and is an original Kent car.  Danny said; “She’s a great car, and we love taking her out for a spin when we can. She is very special to us, especially Pippa, my partner, who enjoyed it as a child with her family and older sister. We restored it nearly four years ago, and we are proud to have kept all the original parts. We call her Olive, and we were so happy for her history to be recognised at this year's show.”  All in all it was a truly fantastic day, with the event raising money for the Kent, Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance. In total they raised £8,625.93! 

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  • Turkey Mill celebrates 25th anniversary as a thriving business park with VIPs

    30th May 2022

    Dougie Lawson and the Turkey Mill team hosted a luncheon for local VIPs, friends, colleagues, and tenants, to celebrate 25 years of ownership earlier this month. The sun shone and produced picturesque views, which perfectly showed off Turkey Mill as the unique heritage business site it has become to be known for in the locality. Along with Adrian Spier, Ralph Congreve and Tom Sheldon, Dougie enjoyed welcoming new and old friends in celebration of Turkey Mill’s long running success. The event was held at The Orangery at Turkey Mill (now run by Glow Events), which hosts weddings and events, and is extremely popular, with over 170 weddings this year. In line with Turkey Mill's unwavering commitment to the local community, all food and drinks were procured from local producers. Members of the Maidstone Borough and Kent County Councils attended, along with representatives from Locate in Kent & the Chamber of Commerce. Mark Dance, Conservative Counsellor in Canterbury, spoke at the event on behalf of Sir Paul Carter, former leader of Kent County Council, who was unable to attend due to illness.  Other VIP guests included the Mayoress of Maidstone and Paul Andrews, presenter of the Business Bunker radio show who used to work at Turkey Mill when it was a working paper mill.  All in all it was a great day to celebrate the achievements and progress Turkey Mill has made over the past 25 years which, despite the global pandemic, has never been more fully occupied as a thriving business park.  The team look forward to being involved with upcoming local events including the Bearsted Vintage Car Show, Bearsted Book Hunt and the KAB Charity Golf Day.   

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  • Guide Dogs take over Turkey Mill in fostering awareness campaign

    11th May 2022

    Turkey Mill hosts South East Guide Dog Fostering Event May 2022 – This week Turkey Mill was taken over by the South-East Guide Dogs team, to raise awareness and promote fostering Guide Dog puppies. The initiative calls upon individuals to foster a puppy in training, which then provides the puppies a vital foundation for their future role as a Guide Dog. Often, the individual will look after a puppy for around 12- 16 months, and will involve guiding him or her through training, socialisation, the introduction of new experiences and environments. As part of the scheme, individuals who choose to foster will be involved with Guide Dogs world class Puppy Raising for Excellent Partnership (PREP) training programme. The event which took place in the Walled Garden, had guide dog puppies of all ages, which the public and tenants were welcomed to pet, including a 6-month-old puppy in training called Wendy. The event allowed tenants to chat to the South-East Guide Dog team, as well as volunteers, who discussed their own experiences and expressed why this was such an important cause. Danny & Katherine O’Donoghue have both been guide dog volunteers since 1984 and have taken care of 20 guide dog puppies. They both commented “There is a shortage of volunteers, both here in Kent and the rest of the UK.” Dougie Lawson, estate manager of Turkey Mill said “We are trying to raise awareness of the fostering scheme for those who live near and work at Turkey Mill, as they can drop the puppies off in the morning with South-East Guide Dogs, and then pick them up in the evening. This is a vital cause which has suffered some volunteer fatigue caused by the pandemic, so we are keen to support and help the charity.”    

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  • Turkey Mill's Grand National winner!

    27th April 2022

    Last weekend millions watched 39-year-old Sam Waley-Cohen win the Grand National on Noble Yeats, making him the first amateur jockey to win the famous steeplechase in 32 years. It was his 10th attempt and was his final race before retirement. Sam is the only amateur jockey to win both the Grand National and Cheltenham Gold Cup. Almost as surprising are Wayley-Cohen's links closer to home at Turkey Mill, the 20 acre business park in Maidstone. A dentist by trade, his business, Portman Dental owns a group of private clinics, one of which - Fresh Dental - is located at Turkey Mill in Maidstone, alongside a number of health & wellbeing tenants and a mix of 70+ other businesses. Cohen's dentistry links were alluded to in his recent The Daily Telegraph interview, where he said if he won, he would fix stable lad Mick Molloy’s missing tooth. A promise he said he would of course honour.  Who knew? We just wish we had backed him at odds of 50-1 ………

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  • Last year's winner Turkey Mill kicks off Maidstone in Bloom with Mayoress visit

    21st April 2022

    Turkey Mill welcomed the Mayoress of Maidstone and her husband this week to mark the opening of this year’s Maidstone Borough in Bloom competition. To mark the occasion a Jubilee Rose was planted in the historic Walled Garden. The competition celebrates anyone in the borough who enjoys creating beautiful gardens, including residents, businesses, and community groups.  Working alongside Coolings Garden Centre in Bearsted and Leeds Castle, the borough will award the winners of each category with a trophy and two adult annual tickets for Leeds Castle. Categories include best front garden, best back garden, best planted pot, trough or hanging basket, best allotment plot, best pollinator friendly garden, best display of jubilee colours, best commercial garden, and best community project. Turkey Mill, who won best commercial garden last year, gave the Mayoress and her team a tour of the grounds along with Ian Hazon from Coolings Garden Centre. Dougie Lawson, Estate Manager of Turkey Mill said, “It was such a delight to have the Mayoress come to visit the gardens and plant a rose in the Walled Garden, which is used by both office tenants and wedding guests. We pride ourselves on our gardens, so it was a great opportunity to show off the work of our gardeners, Richard Gare and team.” The competition opened on the 21st of April and entries can be made up until the 1st of July. Judging will then take place from the 4th of July, where judges will start inspecting the gardens. There will then be an awards ceremony at the end of July, date to be confirmed.

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  • Turkey Mill sponsors the Bearsted Classic Car and Vintage Retro Show on the Green

    25th February 2022

    Business oasis Turkey Mill has become a principal sponsor of the Bearsted Classic Car and Vintage Retro Show on the Green which takes place on 24 July 2022, in aid of the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust in what will be its 14th annual show. \r\n Many of Turkey Mill\'s tenants come from Bearsted and the team behind the business oasis in Maidstone want to show their support for such a worthwhile cause. \r\n As part of the sponsorship, a new award will be announced. The Turkey Mill Heritage Cup will be awarded to the car with the best heritage, decided by Dougie Lawson and the Turkey Mill team. \r\n Dougie Lawson said: \"We have always wanted to be involved with the Classic Car show in Bearsted and are delighted that we have had the opportunity this year. We will be sponsoring alongside Haynes of Maidstone. We will ensure plenty of support and bring our own heritage motors down to boot. After all, we are the business oasis driving growth for Kent companies for 25 years!\" \r\n There are 200 spaces for classic cars, which must be over 30 years of age, and the cars will be entered on a first come first served basis. They must be there parked between 10-4pm. \r\n To enter, complete the form on the following link: https://forms.gle/bst5ZuJx3hbk8v4p8 \r\n  

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  • Turkey Mill ranks top for air quality in the South East

    26th January 2022

    Climate change and air pollution has risen to the top of business requirements when looking for new office space, following COP26 and the global pandemic as the owners of Turkey Mill in Maidstone, Kent have found.  Last year, Upper Stone Street in Maidstone was dubbed the most polluted street in Kent, with the Kent Messenger reporting that it consistently failed to meet the safe levels of air pollution. Even more worryingly, in 2018, the 500-metre stretch of road was found to be one of the worst hotspots for unclean air in the country - a plaudit repeated in 2019 and 2020 too. However, Turkey Mill, a historic paper mill turned Business Park located just 1 mile down the road, is presenting a very different story and have repeatedly taken readings which are the lowest in the area.  In parallel, they have seen demand and enquiries rise significantly post pandemic from companies looking for a better level of wellbeing for staff, and plenty of fresh air is also on their agenda. With over 75 tenants with office space at the 20 acre park, it currently has over 95% occupancy which demonstrates its popularity post pandemic where many other parks have seen vacancy levels spike. Located just outside of the town centre and near the M20 corridor, Turkey Mill is an example of best practice when it comes to multi-tenanted office space with an abundance of fresh air and greenery - demonstrating it is possible for this area of Kent to have clean air. They have an average reading of just 12ug, which is almost three quarters lower than Upper Stone Street’s current monthly average of 46.2ug/m3 (previously peaking at just under 80ug/m3).  Since the start of the pandemic, there has been an increased awareness placed on health and wellbeing, particularly the environment we live and work in. Air toxicity has been a key consideration, especially after experiencing the benefits of lower levels during the various lockdowns, after the public were asked to stay at home and only travel when essential.  However, with many returning to work and taking up their regular commute, air pollution may worsen - again putting an increased risk on people's health.  Air pollution which is caused by air pollutants such as chemicals, smoke, dust, or allergens, can cause a wide range of adverse health effects. In 2017, around 300 people in the Maidstone borough had died prematurely because of the high levels of air pollution, highlighting it as a real and urgent issue. PM2.5, the term used to describe particles suspended in the atmosphere, have a direct link to health problems.  Green campaigner Stuart Jeffery has already called out Maidstone council’s lack of effort in combatting the air pollution problem and calls for many motorists to stop sitting with their engines running. In order to combat the problem, the local council have put in place an Air Quality Action Plan as well as an Air Quality Management Area to try and improve the issue. Dougie Lawson, co-owner of Turkey Mill, says: “The impact of air toxicity on health has become extremely clear in recent years, and we want to provide a healthy working environment for our tenants but to also play our part and set by example when it comes to reducing climate change. Turkey Mill is surrounded by 20 acres of land and gardens, and we want to promote this tranquil location in all aspects, including having clean air. With research suggesting that the cleaner the air in an office space, the more productive and efficient workers are - now is the time to really focus in on air quality as a major requisite for the workplace.”  Turkey Mill is an unusually well-connected green oasis, with flexible and modern office space. It has shown that it is possible to have low air toxicity readings in this area of Kent and is also working on several environmental initiatives to be announced soon, that will enhance Turkey Mill's sustainability still further.    

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  • Did anyone spot Santa above Turkey Mill this Christmas?

    1st December 2021

    Over the Christmas holidays, the only people at Turkey Mill were the gardeners, security and the management. Upon patrolling the grounds and checking the footage from our security cameras we spotted a strange site in the skies. Could it be a bit of Christmas magic? We'll let you guys decide... #santasleigh #turkeymillmagic #theskyisalive #haveyoubeengood #safetravels #magicdust #sustainableflying

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  • Turkey Mill sees its community return, along with the hot weather

    8th September 2021

    With 'back to school' now firmly complete, Turkey Mill has seen the 'great return to work' with our business community flourishing once again post pandemic. While we had a constant flow of people in and out of Turkey Mill during the pandemic, this was vastly reduced and social interactions were of course minimal. Now, with the sun shining and the gardens immaculately kept, as always by our head gardener Richard, we are lucky to be seeing groups gather for lunch and al fresco meetings in the walled garden, or grabbing a coffee from our on-site restaurant Blakes Bistro, and making the most of the 20 acres of open spaces we have at our fingertips. With the phone ringing off the hook for flexible space at Turkey Mill from people who want more to life than commuting to work, we will have many lettings to tell you about in the near future. Watch this space and, in the meantime, enjoy the sun.

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  • As quality Maidstone office supply dwindles, Turkey Mill sees lettings agreed at record speed

    19th July 2021

    Business destination has kept 95% occupancy throughout pandemic Demand for quality space ensures a constant demand for Turkey Mill with minimal void periods and highlights flight to working outside the city post Covid Over 600,000 sq ft of poor-quality office stock in Maidstone converted into resi via PDR   June 2021- A dearth of quality office space in Maidstone has seen workplace locations such as Turkey Mill do deals on the same day vacant space is placed on the market. A business oasis, fronting the A20 and close to Jct 7 of the M20, yet set in 20 acres of lush grounds, Turkey Mill has maintained 95% occupancy from 70 tenants throughout lockdown due to its modern facilities, open spaces, focus on wellbeing and connected yet tranquil location.   Since the advent of Permitted Development Rights, over 600,000 sq ft of office stock in the town has been converted into residential with no new development to replace it. At the same time, there has been a flight to quality and demand has remained high for well-located, well-designed and flexible space - as more workers wish to work closer to home and from greener environments, particularly post-COVID. The high occupancy figures at Turkey Mill supports this movement, with no drop in rental levels being achieved and at the nearby Eclipse Business Park, where space is currently intense competition for the 17,000 sq ft Horizon House with a quoting rent of £24.00 per sq ft.   Dougie Lawson, co-owner of Turkey Mill, said: “It is clear we are seeing a flight to quality when it comes to offices post Covid-19 against a background of reducing stock. With underperforming older offices being repurposed into residential units, there is a notable pent-up demand for grade A space in the area from local businesses, ex-commuters and even some large corporates. The most recent example of PDR being the planned conversion of the Coleman House office tower with tenants occupying 30,000 sq ft of offices having to relocate by the end of this year. The lack of supply and need for quality has meant there is strong demand for any space in this category which is being let almost immediately, something we have been positively experiencing at Turkey Mill.”   In the last six months, Turkey Mill has completed 12 transactions from a combination of new lettings, relocations & lease renewals.     Dougie Lawson says: “More and more people have discovered the benefits of working close to home but not at home. Our ability to proactively juggle space to ensure greater flexibility for both new and existing occupiers has no doubt helped our impressive 95% occupancy. We currently have some space available for smaller businesses and have planning consent for Paul Sandby Court, a new office scheme of 23,000 sq ft, where we are looking for a pre-let in order to justify a start of the development.   ENDS   For press enquiries contact:   Laura Gibson, laura@calvermont.com, 07493 722294 Olivia Thornhill, olivia@calvermont.com, 07515 199538 Notes to Editors Turkey Mill is a business destination, blending a unique paper mill history and heritage architecture with modern facilities in an accessible green oasis. Exceptionally connected to Maidstone, Medway Towns and the M20 corridor, open your windows to 20 acres of landscaped grounds and outstanding parkland. With 100,000 sq ft of flexible office space, 600 parking spaces and a refreshing café culture, we are home to more than 70 growing businesses, as well as The Orangery, an award-winning wedding and conference venue. Imagine working in a location so beautiful that people get married here? www.turkeymill.co.uk

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  • Business Community Newsletter - Turkey Mill May 2021

    17th May 2021

    Dear All,   I am delighted to see a build-up of staff returning to work at Turkey Mill and expect to see this continuing throughout the summer.   All current indications are that the Government will end the working-from-home guidance for England on the 21st June and I sense that this will continue to be the case based on the success of the current vaccination programme, most likely backed up by an accelerated programme in any areas with a surge in new variants.   Blake’s Cafe In light of this positivity and the reopening of inside of pubs and restaurants, I'm delighted to confirm that our very own Turkey Mill cafe Blakes has reopened its doors. Let's celebrate by sharing a pic of your drink being enjoyed in your favourite spot at Turkey Mill, with the following tag, depending on which social platform is your favourite: Twitter: #goodtoback @turkeymill Instagram #goodtoback @turkey_mill Facebook: #goodtoback @turkeymill LinkedIn: #goodtoback @turkey-mill It would be great if you could post from your company accounts too. For those ready to enjoy not having to make lunch at home once again, Blakes will be serving freshly prepared dishes – watch out for next week’s specials. We look forward to seeing your pictures and posts. New tenant alert! Please welcome two new tenants to the Turkey Mill community: ELS (SE) Ltd – specialist suppliers of electricians to building contractors & Cleartec Ltd – www.cleartec.co.uk – providing smart technology to create an Intelligent Workplace. A number of relocations and lettings to new tenants are currently being negotiated – further news in the next newsletter. Gardener’s Corner Not only have our resident gardeners been working hard behind the scenes throughout lock-down to keep Turkey Mill looking as green and blooming as ever, but they have welcomed a new person to the team - Alexandria Crosbie-Cowley (Ally), who incidentally used to work for one of the businesses at Turkey Mill. Say hello to all of the team if you spot them. When you're back, also try to take some time to enjoy the grounds - there is plenty of space for outdoor brainstorming, breakouts and more. Also keep an eye out for the refreshed hanging baskets in the courtyard at Blakes. Weddings are back at Turkey Mill Despite the gloom of the pandemic, I'm pleased to report that love lives on post-lockdown. The weddings business has already got off to a cracking start with full bookings from 21st June onwards, which means we should be a lively hub once again throughout the summer. We really look forward to seeing happy groups sharing special moments at The Orangery once again. Bright Horizons – Turkey Mill Vicky Thompson, the Nursery Manager has asked me to mention that she is having monthly open days on Saturdays and would be delighted to be contacted by anyone based at Turkey Mill. She is offering free registration for any children starting before the end of June. -Victoria.thompson@brighthorizons.com 01622 235145 www.brighthorizons.co.uk/our-nurseries/maidstone-turkey-mill-day-nursery-and-preschool  (based on the number of scans being carried out by Ultrasound Direct on the floor above my office in recent months – www.ultrasound-direct.com , she should be very busy in the next year or two!). Thank you Thank you for sharing this newsletter across your business colleagues and community. If you have your own story, ideas or feedback to share, please contact our comms team via social@calvermont.com. We look forward to your return.   Dougie & the team

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  • Why flexibility is key for the post pandemic world of work

    15th March 2021

    The pandemic has been an accelerator of change for many people's working lives. Commuters have reevaluated what's important to them and while some are missing the bright lights and social scene of London, most are leaning towards a more flexible or hybrid way of working - still demanding office space outside the family home, but without the long commutes and rigid working patterns pre 2020. How though, can locations facilitate this more flexible working model, whereby people don't need to be in the office 9-5 five days a week and instead have the option of popping in and out as it suits - whether it be to collaborate or socialise with colleagues, or to escape an unfit home working space? In Maidstone, we have seen over 500,000 sq ft of office space transformed into residential blocks via permitted development rights, due to lack of demand historically. But this doesn't mean there is a lack of demand for office space, moreover it points to demand for a different type of space to work in, space that has lots of space! What we mean by this is the ability to be flexible and enjoy more fresh air and outdoor space that people are yearning for post Covid-19. At Turkey Mill, we are incredibly lucky to have both - acres of beautiful greenery and gardens where our tenants can host external meetings or simply get their fill of fresh air at break times. With managers onsite, there is also the ability to arrange desk moves and space changes to flex space up or down, to best suit requirements. Turkey Mill is able to quickly adapt to support new businesses interested in finding new ways of working, with flexible space, flexible leases and a friendly, welcoming team. This team feels privileged to have already helped a number of tenants evolve their ways of working during the pandemic. If you have an office requirement, personally or as part of a business, talk to us and we'll work out our flexibility to match your needs.  

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  • Spring has sprung and we cannot wait to welcome you back

    22nd February 2021

    Over the weekend, Spring certainly looked like it had sprung. The weather was noticeably warmer and the sun came out! As we wait for better news from the Government, the amazing landscaping team have been working hard to ensure the grounds are as beautifully kept as ever.  Our gardener Richard has been planting plenty of seeds all year around to ensure fresh blooms for each season. Just look at what is waiting for our tenants' return. If you have any photos that you'd like to share, please send them in to laura@calvermont.com so we can share them. Alternatively, post them on social media and tag in the Turkey Mill accounts: Twitter: @turkeymill Facebook: @turkeymill  Insta: turkey_mill If we use your picture you will win a prize!  

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  • Happy New Year - positive vibes for 2021!

    4th January 2021

    It's 2021 and this year has to be better than last! Here's why: We expect to see more people wanting to work closer to home without working in the home. We expect fewer people will want to commute by train up to London. We expect people to start prioritising their families and health and wellbeing over work. We expect people to focus on the quality of their surroundings from view and open spaces, to peace and quiet, and to air quality. We expect people will want to build small communities at work and to value the social aspects of being in an office again - even if it's for a shorter period of time. All of this plays to Turkey Mill's advantage. As a well-connected oasis surrounded by beautiful landscaping, we have the best of both worlds: the peace and quiet and open space (with some of the best air quality in the South East), while only being minutes from the M20 and local train stations. Our mix of heritage buildings combined with flexible modern office space is well suited to the future way of working that we expect more and more people and companies to adopt, and we have a number of tenants that focus on health & wellbeing at Turkey Mill. We have seen interest continue throughout all lockdowns and activity continues in terms of new leases, lease extensions or renewals. We cannot wait to welcome new people to our business community and to be a physical business community once again, instead of mainly virtual. Let's make 2021 a good year together!

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  • As Kent gets placed in tier 3, Turkey Mill sees demand rise

    17th December 2020

    AS KENT REMAINS IN TIER 3, COMMUTERS LOOK FOR A MORE PERMANENT CHANGE AT TURKEY MILL Maidstone, December 2020 As Maidstone remains within tier 3 in the Government’s lockdown strategy, local office destination Turkey Mill has seen growing interest and strong demand for its flexible office space. The business oasis has over 100,000 sq ft of office space set in 20 acres of landscaped grounds and gardens and is located close to the M20. It has over 70 tenants across various sectors including media, finance, professional services, health & wellbeing and charities. While questions are asked over the future of the office, Turkey Mill has defied the market and seen multiple lettings and renewals over the last few months, including a high profile new tenant in Optical Express. The leading eye care experts are opening a community-based ophthalmology clinic bringing the latest ophthalmic vision correction solutions to the area. The new clinic will provide easy and safe access to eye care expertise for residents of Maidstone and surrounding towns and villages, some of whom are vulnerable and will feel safe in the spacious surroundings which lends itself well to social distancing. The clinic replaces a former Optical Express retail and refractive consultation clinic based in the Mall Shopping Centre. Dougie Lawson, Director at Turkey Mill, said: “We are lucky that Turkey Mill is well-located, in beautiful surroundings and offers an alternative to traditional city centre offices. Our phone has been busy with enquiries from small businesses wanting to grow in flexible office space through to larger corporates wanting to operate a satellite office outside of London to accommodate their employees who can no longer commute daily into Central London. We negotiated several new lettings during lockdown and have more on the table. It’s a huge sign of confidence in what we have here in Maidstone, particularly given the glum macro situation. In our new-Covid world, people’s work life priorities are changing and we are excited to welcome new occupiers to Turkey Mill who have a focus, like us, on health and wellbeing in the workplace.” Argo Life is another tenant to take space at Turkey Mill. The probate and will solicitors have taken 720 sq ft at Cook’s Barn in a deal struck during lockdown, demonstrating confidence in the long-term appeal of the business park. Kelly Duke, MD of Argo Life said: “We have been growing our business over the last few years and decided to relocate to Turkey Mill because it has flexible office suites that can accommodate a changing business. Post-Covid, as a business with vulnerable customers, we wanted to demonstrate we were taking social distancing and wellness seriously and our new office perfectly reflects this. Our staff are incredibly excited to be able to see trees, flowers and water looking out of our new office, to have an onsite café, and to be able to get to work easily from their various homes. We couldn’t be happier with the Turkey Mill team and with the decision to move here.” Other deals struck in lockdown include a new lease to Marshall Surfacing Contracts, a family business that has been running for over 40 years with a strong track record of commercial projects with developers, councils, schools and contruction; and PRS Plumbing Solutionswho have taken to a larger office space at Whatman Court. In addition, Clear MPW have renewed their lease of 2,900 sq ft in Tolherst Court, having been on site for over 20 years and following their sale to Clear Insurance last year, Konnect Recruit have also expanded into 700 sq ft in the Beater House having previously been basedin the town centre and Publisure have renewed their lease after eight years on site. Lawson concludes: “Turkey Mill has a huge amount of character and historic buildings that are a strong feature of the park, and we have married this with flexible modern space, excellent wi-fi and digital connectivity, and a management team that are on site and easily accessible. Our community is obviously quieter since Covid-19 but still thriving. We have a few office suites remaining for businesses that want to change gear and join our wonderful community.” Turkey Mill has a range of office suites that may become available over the next few months. For further information go to www.turkeymill.co.uk or email estate@turkeymill.co.uk

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  • Turkey Mill lures Optical Express for innovative, state-of-the-art Kent clinic

    1st December 2020

    In demand Maidstone office destination Turkey Mill has secured Optical Express as new tenants.   The leading eye care experts are opening a community-based ophthalmology bringing the latest ophthalmic vision correction solutions to the area.   The new clinic will provide easy and safe access to eye care expertise for residents of Maidstone and surrounding towns and villages, some of whom are vulnerable and will feel safe in the spacious surroundings which lends itself well to social distancing. The clinic replaces a former Optical Express retail and refractive consultation clinic based in the Mall Shopping Centre.   Turkey Mill’s business oasis has seen a surge in lettings post-Covid and now has over 75 tenants, with a strong core of health & wellbeing operators lured by the business community set in open spaces and stunning landscaping located just off the A20 but sheltered from noise and air pollution.   Dougie Lawson, Director at Turkey Mill, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Optical Express to Turkey Mill for its innovative new clinic. We have a strong base of health and wellbeing tenants as part of our business community – it’s a real focus area for the park as these types of businesses are attracted to the wide-open spaces, beautiful gardens and flexible working available here. Post-Covid, we are already seeing this becoming even more of a focus for new or relocating businesses wanting space outside of London.”   In recent months, Turkey Mill has seen other tenants sign up to space including Argo Life, Clear MPW, Konnect Recruit as well as a number of lease renewals, demonstrating the strength of the development as a business destination.   For Optical Express, the new Maidstone clinic forms part of a significant programme of investment delivered in Kent this year. This month the eye care provider is also opening a leading-edge state-of-the-art ophthalmology clinic in Dartford Crossways, offering laser eye, Intraocular Lens (IOL) and cataract surgery. The new facilities represent a £3 million investment in Kent and new specialist optometry and ophthalmology jobs in the area.   Bilal Ahmad, Regional Director, said: “Our team are so excited to start work at the new clinic at Turkey Mill in Maidstone. I’m very proud that we can help to transform people’s lives with vision correction surgery, and I’m keen to speak to as many local people as possible in Maidstone. Glasses and contact lenses carry so many risks that patients often aren’t aware of, and in the long term they are so expensive too. Helping to educate patients so they can make informed choices about their vision treatment is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job!”  

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  • #WATCH the official Turkey Mill video

    9th November 2020

    The official Turkey Mill video has landed - tell us what you think? During the last days of summer, we managed to shoot the official video for Turkey Mill. While we know that it\'s a great place to work come rain or shine, we were blessed with the weather which meant we could really showcase the stunning landscaping and gardens that the team works so hard to maintain. We decided to produce the video now because post-pandemic we know people will be more conscious about their wellness at work and may think twice about commuting so often and so far. We wanted to show people that there are other options that are still close to major transport connections but that offer open and flexible spaces in a beautiful and tranquil environment and a friendly business community to boot. We really believe Turkey Mill is a business oasis. Have a look at the video and tell us what you think. And, if you like it, please share it across social platforms - we are active on Twitter, Facebook, Insta and LinkedIn: https://twitter.com/turkeymill/status/1320757014855897090 https://www.facebook.com/turkeymill https://www.instagram.com/turkey_mill/  Looking forward to hearing the feedback.

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  • Turkey Mill goes social! Join our online community.

    15th October 2020

    We have taken the decision to raise the profile of Turkey Mill across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.   Handles are:   Facebook - TurkeyMill - https://www.facebook.com/turkeymill  Twitter - @turkeymill - https://twitter.com/turkeymill  Insta - @turkey_mill - https://www.instagram.com/turkey_mill/  LinkedIn - turkey-mill - https://www.linkedin.com/company/3640805/admin/    Please do follow us and engage with or share our posts. Please do include our handle in your own posts, with the most proactive advocates of Turkey Mill to be rewarded with a voucher to spend in Blakes.   Ideas of things you can share: Photos of the grounds Things you love about working here Support for the wider Turkey Mill business community Anything linked to flexible working, open space, wellness and not commuting into London!   Thank you - look forward to you joining our online community!

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  • Turkey Mill community newsletter Oct 2020

    15th October 2020

    We were delighted to see more people returning to work during September and October with virtually all offices back in operation, although on a reduced staffing level.   We know that this year has been tough for many and that there may be further complications as central government continues to issue new regulations, but at least Turkey Mill has the benefits of plenty of open space, ample car parking (avoiding public transport) and our offices can accommodate social distancing and a focus on wellness in a flexible environment, allowing all the different businesses on the Estate adapt to the “new normal”.   We have seen an increase in enquiries from people wanting to work locally, more flexibly and in an attractive and characterful setting.   We have also welcomed new tenants including Delta House Maintenance, Konnect Recruit, Argo Life & Optical Express with several deals being struck in the depth of lockdown.   Our café Blakes has reopened and is serving customers from 8am-3pm, a testament to the hard work and commitment by the team, seen by many to be the hub of Turkey Mill. Please do your best to support them when you’re on site – they have a range of home cooked produce and their coffees really are excellent. Plus the wi-fi is fast (& free) should you wish to hold informal meetings there.   Do, as ever, continue to feedback and suggest ideas to improve Turkey Mill, we are always open to new ideas!   Look forward to seeing more of you over the coming weeks.   New tenants alert!   Welcome to Turkey Mill to:   Argo Life, solicitors acting for the elderly and vulnerable, have taken the space at Cooks Barn. As a growing business, they chose Turkey Mill because it has room and flexibility to scale up over time and is known as a hub for growing businesses. They also picked the location due to the beautiful environment and countryside feel and the ability to meet clients safely on site and demonstrate that they are taking Covid and social distancing seriously.   Kelly Duke, MD of Argo Life said of the move: “We have been moving our team over this week and they are really excited by the location and culture on offer at Turkey Mill. To have trees, water and flowers visible from our windows is wonderful and something the staff haven’t experienced in a working environment previously. We are really happy with the office space, the café onsite - which we will be regulars at - and the management team, who have been really helpful and accommodating throughout. The location was also a massive reason behind our decision to move to Turkey Mill – our staff are spread out over Kent and can all access the office easily. We couldn’t be happier with our decision.”   We will hear more from them over the coming weeks.   PFPR – about to celebrate 20 years of business growth at Turkey Mill and a new leadership team   Exciting news this month from one of our largest and longest serving tenants PFPR who set up the business in 2001 taking its first office at Turkey Mill.   Over the years, we've seen the business go from strength to strength, and move to larger offices on the Estate as they've grown, and now they are about to embark on a whole new chapter as Peter Rawlinson hands over the reigns to MD Peter Fox and Deputy MD Mike Stainton.   We wish them every success with their plans for the business and we hope to still see Peter Rawlinson around Turkey Mill as he continues his involvement with the company as a consultant.   Turkey Mill is going social!     We have taken the decision to raise the profile of Turkey Mill across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.   Handles are: Facebook - TurkeyMill Twitter - @turkeymill Insta - @turkey_mill LinkedIn - turkey-mill   Please do follow us and engage with or share our posts. Please do include our handle in your own posts, with the most proactive advocates of Turkey Mill to be rewarded with a voucher to spend in Blakes.   Ideas of things you can share: Photos of the grounds Things you love about working here Support for the wider Turkey Mill business community Anything linked to flexible working, open space, wellness and not commuting into London!   Gardener’s Corner      The Roundabout has been busy flowering since May, but has just had its autumn haircut.  Whilst it will retain some winter structure, we now move on to bulb planting to ensure we have a great display from winter until the perennials begin again.   Now is the time to think about your bulb displays for next spring.  You should aim to get your bulbs in before we start to get harsh frosts, so that they have time to establish some decent roots. Tulips can be planted a bit later.   Bulbs like a free draining soil, so if yours is heavy, add some grit to the base of the planting hole to improve drainage.  Bulbs come with suggested planting depths, but as a rule of thumb deeper is better than too shallow, so don’t worry if yours go in a bit deeper than the guide, they’ll thank you for it.     If your autumn garden is looking a bit uninspiring, aside from getting some bedding in to brighten it up, now is the time to take some photos and identify the gaps.  You can then look out for some plants with great autumn or winter interest to fill those gaps for this time next year.   Finally, the Roundabout planting has received many admirers who have asked for planting lists. If you would like a list please email Debbie in the Estate Office.   Happy gardening!   Finally, if you have any news or views you'd like to share or promote, get in touch with either laura@calvermont.com or olivia@calvermont.com  at our PR & marketing consultancy. And please do pass this newsletter on to all your staff – in the current environment when we aren’t all together, it’s good to keep communicating. Similarly, if you would like more email addresses added to this newsletter distribution list please get in touch.   Dougie & the team   Turkey Mill Estate Office

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  • Catch Turkey Mill Director Dougie Lawson on Biz Bunker Radio!

    14th October 2020

    Our very own Turkey Mill Director (and on-site landlord) Dougie Lawson was a guest on this week's Kent Business Bunker radio programme joining presenters Paul Andrews and Jules Serkin. Dougie was a hit, with Twitter users and listeners of the show alike very impressed with the history of our beautiful business park and why it's a great place to work - even more so in these strange times where people value wellness and space. Catch the full show here: kentbusinessradio.co.uk/show-498/ Share the show on social tagging in @turkeymill and mentioning #BBunker to get your tweets and business noticed! Well done Dougie!    

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  • Latest Turkey Mill community update

    28th May 2020

    Over the last few weeks, I have been talking to many businesses on the Estate and I wanted to take this opportunity to update you all as to what Turkey Mill is doing to facilitate plans for a return to work. We are in an enviable position to many – having the advantage of a location outside of London, with plenty of outdoor space and ample car parking, which does give us more flexibility for returning to work in a safer way. June is looking to be a month of change with the gradual reopening of schools and shops. My sense is that a number of businesses here at Turkey Mill are planning to reopen offices over the next fortnight with reduced staffing, limited by social distancing guidance within the workspace.  We are of course supportive of this and I attach here the most relevant current Government working guidance dated 11th May. While much of this is targeted at large offices I feel it is a balanced guide. Although there is no precedent, I suspect fuller occupancy will be delayed until frequent testing is widely available combined with a corresponding mobile phone tracking app. Practical information We have installed hand sanitizer dispensers in the entrance to all shared space and our cleaners, Glow, will be carrying out weekly deep cleaning of all shared kitchens & bathrooms. MD Diagnostics at 15 Hollingworth Court are a medical equipment provider & have asked me to let you know that they have a good supply of face masks on site. If you would like to buy some please see https://www.mdd.org.uk/product/triple-layer-surgical-face-mask-50-per-box/ – the Estate Office has already bought a box. Other Turkey Mill news and updates I hope you all admire the new look roundabout, which was replanted last week, as much as I do! It is early days, but with the benefit of warm weather and irrigation it should be an impressive welcome to those arriving on site. I have also never known the Walled Garden looking so good, which combined with the current weather, making it ideal for outdoor meetings. Mote Park is also looking wonderful. Talking of Mote Park, Maidstone Council has contractors starting on site in early June to strengthen the earth bund (dam) which separates the Mote Park and Turkey Mill lakes. They have already cut down trees to open up the site & assure me that we will hardly notice the works, which I understand will take approximately 6 months to complete. Other brief updates: We have been in close contact with Securitas and are pleased to report that we have had no problems with onsite security. I have spoken to our Café operator who is keen to get back on site who may initially reopen in July on the basis of pre-orders and a delivery round, across the Estate. Last weekend Turkey Mill’s main water meter was replaced as well as pipework upgraded which should make a noticeable improvement to the water pressure around the Estate. One final point is that I would be happy to help any tenant who claims Small Business Rates Relief & who has not either applied for the £10,000 grant available or who is in dispute about it. The team are very much looking forward to the safe phasing out of current Covid-19 restrictions and to seeing many more familiar faces back on the Estate. I continue to be on site on Mondays Wednesdays & Fridays and am always available on my mobile phone or by email. Dougie LawsonDirector –  Turkey Mill Investments Ltd

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  • Stay home, stay safe, from Turkey Mill management team

    29th March 2020

    During the current lockdown in the UK due to Covid-19, Turkey Mill is of course following the Government guidance closely. We take the safety of our staff, tenants and community extremely seriously and, as such, the park will effectively be closed. The management team of Dougie Lawson (manager), Debbie Croucher (secretary) and Kevin Myles (estate manager) can still be contacted at any time via our usual telephone numbers & email addresses, but if you use maintenance@turkeymill.co.uk that will automatically go to all three. During this period of remote working, please know that your business property will be looked after and secure and any essential maintenance or healthy and safety issues fixed. We will continue to monitor the situation and update you with news and important information about Turkey Mill. In the meantime, stay home, stay safe and we wish you and your families well. Look forward to our community returning to our beautiful working environment when it is safe to do so.

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  • Turkey Mill launches refreshed branding to blend heritage with modern working

    19th December 2019

    Turkey Mill has launched a refreshed creative brand and messaging, to help tell its story across West Kent. Local agency Calvermont helped the leadership team to pick a logo and set of messaging that reflects the park’s rich history and heritage but also demonstrates a more modern, flexible working vibe, that Turkey Mill has become known for. The new strapline will be ‘Turkey Mill, A Business Oasis’ The new message will be ‘A business destination, blending history and heritage with modern facilities in an accessible green oasis.’ And the logo mixes a newer green palette and a bolder more modern font, with a quill-style icon. There is also  some heritage but vibrant orange to link to the historic buildings, and a blue to accent the paper mill’s background. New photography of the park has also been taken to reflect the beauty of the working environment and a new marketing and comms campaign will be launched soon.

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  • Turkey Mill hires local brand & PR agency Calvermont to grow its profile

    19th December 2019

    Turkey Mill has hired Calvermont, a Kent-based brand and PR agency to support it in its drive to grow its profile across West Kent. Dougie Lawson, director at Turkey Mill Investments Ltd, said: “Turkey Mill is such a beautiful location with a strong heritage and a thriving business community. However, most people know the park only for its weddings. We have hired Calvermont to help us tell our story – one of rich history mixed with modern working in a well-connected business oasis.” Calvermont is a property, leisure & destination focussed agency, set up by two ex-London professionals Laura Gibson and Olivia Thornhill. They have been working with Turkey Mill tenants as well as the owners to establish what makes Turkey Mill so special and will be launching new content, a refreshed website and a marketing campaign in 2020.

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  • Welcome to the Park!

    19th December 2019

    In the last two months we have welcomed two new tenants to the park. Inline Health, a company that offers services linked to a good diet, achieving a strong and flexible body and a clear and calm mind. Joanna Botley, a legal partner at Ashley Wilson LLP has joined the park, specialising in residential and commercial property law,acting for a mixture of clients – regional, national and international. We will be announcing a new events and networking calendar in 2020, so if you haven’t already met them, this will be a good chance to meet more of the Turkey Mill community.

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  • Involve Kent move to Turkey Mill

    4th March 2019

    The move to Turkey Mill helped transform our organisation as part of our growth strategy – our new headquarters is modern, flexible and open plan, on a very attractive and well managed estate. It combines accessibility to town with convenience for parking. The change enhanced staff morale and communication between teams and departments, and gave us a new confidence. We believe the site is a factor in helping us recruit the best quality staff, who are attracted by the site and setting. The office is welcoming and professional facility for meetings with partners and funders and demonstrates that the organisation is sustainable and professional.

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  • Dogs guided by Turkey Mill to larger facility

    2nd August 2017

    Long standing occupiers, Guide Dogs Association, are consolidating their regional centre at Turkey Mill by adding 4 James Whatman Court to their existing space at 6 James Whatman Court. Landlords, Turkey Mill Investments, have managed the process of making sure the new space could be offered to Guide Dogs who will now have 4,000sq ft in the Business Park.

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  • Final development phase receives planning consent

    7th October 2016

    Turkey Mill Investments have received detailed planning consent for a new three storey office with 98 car spaces. The building, to be known as Paul Sandby Court, will stand in the south west corner of the site with views towards Mote Park and over the Business Park. The be built over three floors and totalling 21,882 sq ft, the building will have two lift and service cores and be capable of sub-division on each floor to provide suites from 1800 sq ft. TMI Estates Director John Hawkins says “There are no immediate plans to start construction but we will look to do the enabling works for the scheme which includes a new bridge over the river as soon as we can” The development is named after Paul Sandby who is a famous painter (1731-1809) and founder member of the Royal Academy. One of his most famous paintings is the view of Vinters at Boxley, Kent with Mr Whatman’s Turkey Paper Mills in the foreground.

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  • Business Rate Recaluation Awaited

    7th October 2016

    The new rateable values on which business rates for the year beginning 1 April 2017 will be available on line this month. You can register to receive notification of the new assessments (see leaflet attached). The new assessments are based on values that were taken at 1 April 2015. In most cases there will be changes and early indications are that some rateable values on the Business Park will be reduced. A reduction in value may not be the only saving as if the new rateable value has fallen below the Small Business rate relief threshold of £12,000 you could qualify for 100% relief in April 2017. The relief tapers to zero between £12k and £15k. Remember you have to apply for it and there are rules relating to the number of premises you occupy. Tenants receiving notification of revised assessments should tell the Estate office – john@turkeymill.co.uk as a co-ordinated response to these where there are inaccuracies is important.

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  • Day Nursery at Turkey Mill

    31st May 2016

    December marked the 5th year anniversary of the opening of the Day Nursery at Turkey Mill and the facility has just rebranded to Bright Horizons following the acquisition of the original business by that company from Kidsunlimited of Wilmslow. The Nursery continues to be highly rated by offset and very popular.

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