Expansion of business kicks off turnaround for Maidstone Development in New Kent

Kids take part of a ribbon cutting ceremony as part of Stay & Play's expansion in the Maidstone Development in New Kent.

Andre' Jones photo

In November 2013, the Maidstone development, part of the New Kent Courthouse Village, was purchased by John Adamson from John Crump in order to kickstart life back into the once stagnant area. It seems that after nearly two years of waiting, the turn towards a brighter future for the establishment is only a matter of time.

Part of the reasoning for Maidstone development is credited to four businesses that have flourished. Active Life Fitness, Maidstone Dental, New Kent Insurance Agency, and Stay & Play Child Care continue to be bright business spots for the complex. Now, other companies are looking at possibly occupying space in the development.

Stay & Play’s success has continued to grow and on Sept. 3, a celebration occurred for the business. Stay & Play agreed to occupy more area in the Maidstone Development, more than doubling their occupancy from 46 to 101 children.

“When the new developer [Adamson] bought Maidstone he wanted to come up with a new plan,” said Stay & Play owner Kate West. “We’ve been open for six-and-a-half years and have been full for three-and-a-half years.

“This expansion is the first step into Maidstone developing,” West continued. “This area was once stagnant, but Adamson is launching new houses and a new wave of businesses will make Maidstone a place everyone wants to be.”

Adamson, who attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the expansion of Stay & Play, spoke about the turnaround he’s seen since becoming owner of Maidstone Group LLC.

“We’ve been working on a concept to give our houses and homes a Carolina feel and vibe,” he said. “We’re working with Hopkins & Associates out of Williamsburg and Allison Ramsey from South Carolina on a few concepts for both homes and businesses.”

Adamson purchased the residential component of Maidstone for $350,000 in Nov. 2013, and followed that with a purchase of the commercial development for $1,125,000. According to the developer, an increase in calls and inquiries has come into his office about the availability in Maidstone. Adamson said he’s been listening to feedback from New Kent citizens while making an effort to fill those needs.

“The next stage of this development is to have houses work with businesses,” he said, emphasizing the right combination of balance between the two.

Adamson commented about recent talks with businesses in an effort to bring them into the development.

“I am encouraging those businesses that have looked at Maidstone in the past to look again,” commented the developer. “I believe that they will see the progress and growth we are having and Stay & Play is an example of it.”

As far as the immediate future, Adamson hinted at a possible new business in the area.

“I hope to have an exciting announcement on a restaurateur coming to Maidstone,” he concluded.