On Wednesday 24 June, dignitaries and key partners in the Docking Station project, will join the ceremonial topping-out ceremony for the new creative production studio due to open in in Chatham in early 2027.
Docking Station is breathing new life into the Grade II listed Police Section House, one of The Historic Dockyard Chatham’s Scheduled Ancient Monuments, transforming it into a hi-tech production facility and new co-working space for Medway.
The Topping Out marks the highest point of the building frame being completed. Following an ancient tradition traced back to Scandinavia ritual, Chris Tompsett from Baxall Construction will conduct the ‘Topping Out’, using a Yew Tree branch to ‘bring good luck and ward off evil spirits’.
Docking Station offers world class resources, including virtual production and motion capture. Local artist Hannah Whittaker has been working with the project team and Chatham Dockyard Historical Society over the past year as Artist-in-Residence and her installation Light On The Watch (2025) will be on display as part of the event.
Whittaker said:
“I’m really stoked that the Docking Station will be here supporting local artists and providing access to immersive technologies. The building isn’t even finish and yet they have already connected with and supported so much in the area, so when it does open it’s doors I cannot wait to see what happens!”
This is a moment of celebration for the University of Kent who, in collaboration with Medway Council and the Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, is spearheading the development of Docking Station through its Institute of Cultural and Creative Industries (iCCi).
Will Draffin, Director of Digital and Future Technologies for iCCi said:
“This is a moment of celebration for Docking Station and for the University of Kent. We are on track for opening early in 2027, ready to drive innovation, skills development and creative opportunities for Medway and Kent, as well as breathe new life into this incredible heritage building.”
Scheduled to open in early 2027, the facility will offer world-class resources, including:
- Virtual production and motion capture studios
- Specialist teaching labs
- Flexible exhibition spaces
- Co-working and office space
- Creative Industries business support and incubation
The project is set to unlock new opportunities for local communities, young people, and creative businesses across Kent, Medway, and the South-East, while supporting the creative industries, one of the UK’s fastest growing sectors.