BUSINESSMEN and women will play a key role in the future prosperity of north Kent.

More than 150 delegates from small, medium and large businesses heard about their importance at the Dartford Business Forum, held in the town's Mick Jagger Centre.

It was jointly organised by Dartford Borough Council and the Kent Thameside Chamber of Commerce.

The vision came from Dartford's council leader, Cllr John Muckle. He praised the commitment and investment of local firms.

"You play a vital role in our community and we want to ensure your views and ideas are taken fully into account in the council's decision-making process," he said.

Cllr Muckle said that the viability of Dartford town centre and the whole borough was vital.

"All the key figures show Dartford has held its own since the opening of Bluewater," he said. "While some people try to talk down the town, the reality is that Dartford is a good place to come for shopping and somewhere people enjoy visiting."

There were specific issues to be tackled and, he said: "Through a new town centre partnership we will build on our strengths as a traditional market town with one of the most popular markets in the south east."

Dartford's environment director, Rob Scott, said the borough was at the centre of a huge regeneration programme and outlined some of the major quality business and housing schemes already established or coming on stream.

He highlighted Dartford's strategic location for many key projects including the Channel Tunnel rail link and redevelopment sites, but said the council was also committed to the green belt.

Business representatives backed the council's plea to work together to ensure Dartford's successful trading future.