The Kent Showground celebrated the official launch of the newly refurbished Clive Emson Conference Centre on Thursday 16th June 2011. Over 400 guests attended the event which showcased the improved 1700sqm exhibition space.

The refurbishment of the building has converted a twenty eight year old, earth floored barn into a modern conference, entertainment and exhibition centre.

The hall has a clear span exhibition space of over 1,700 sq metres measuring 36m by 48m with a ridge height of 7m and an eaves height of 3.6m. There is a viewing gallery and at the far end a cargo door to admit HGV lorries. The entire space is fully lit, has under floor cabling and is fitted with modern communication technologies. There is commercial kitchen space capable for catering for up to 1,000 people.

The new building has full disabled access, including a platform lift to the first floor meeting rooms and business centre.

Alison Wallington, Event Manager for the complex was delighted that the centre was now officially open for business and would be able to host a varied programme of events, from meetings to large conferences. “I am looking forward to welcoming Kent’s business community to the new facilities. We have had a complete re-brand, the Kent Event Centre has a new image, new website and an invigorated approach to event management and planning”.