Despite the economic downturn, the construction industry is determined to show that it is helping to deliver the ambitious vision for the Thames Gateway by backing Construction Expo 2008.

More than 100 exhibitors from across the industry will be at Chatham Historic Dockyard on Wednesday 24 September for what will be the largest construction and regeneration show ever staged in the county.

The event, organised by North Kent Construction Skills with support and funding from Medway Council, will include a conference led by keynote speaker Wayne Hemingway MBE, as well as an opportunity for networking and for finding out more about the huge range of opportunities within the Thames Gateway area.

David Liston-Jones, Chief Executive of Thames Gateway Kent Partnership, who will be speaking at the event, said: “Although the credit crunch has impacted hard on the construction industry, especially those involved in house building, the area remains attractive to investors that recognise its significance to the economic success of London and the South East. Across the area there are companies, many of which will be at Construction Expo, that are helping to make a real difference by making things happen.

“Economists may be predicting that the slowdown will continue for a while yet, but it is important to recognise that the Thames Gateway is a long term project. Over the coming years, there will no doubt be periods of slower growth and periods of faster growth, but the focus will remain on delivering the Thames Gateway programme and creating a new and sustainable economy in the region.”

Acknowledging that the construction industry needs to continue to attract a skilled workforce, Denne Construction will be hosting a mini-expo aimed at schools in Kent and Medway.

David Liston-Jones added: “ North Kent Construction Skills are to be congratulated for organising this event, which will give people the chance to find out more about the exciting developments and opportunities in the Thames Gateway.”

For more information on the Construction Expo, which is free to attend, visit: constructionexpo.co.uk