Our Heritage
Kent Services was founded in 1976 by Jack Kent, who at the age of 85 remains very much the heart and guiding hand of the business. What began as a sole trader operation under the name J A Kent Services Ltd has grown into the trusted, multi-skilled contractor Kent Services is today.
The business started with traditional pest control services, tackling common problems such as rats, mice and cockroaches. As demand increased, Jack took on additional staff and steadily expanded the company’s capabilities. A major turning point came when Kent Services secured a contract with British Rail, marking the beginning of significant growth for the business.
Initially, the contract focused on rabbit clearance along railway embankments and trackside locations. This work quickly expanded into full trackside clearance and maintenance, including the removal of overgrown shrubs, brambles and invasive vegetation, followed by tree pruning and removal where required. As vegetation was cleared, it became apparent that adjoining farmland had been left vulnerable, with livestock escaping due to deteriorated boundaries. Kent Services responded by installing safe, stock-proof fencing alongside the railways.
Further challenges soon followed, including flooding caused by blocked culverts. Once again, Kent Services proved its value through prompt, efficient drainage clearance, helping to keep rail infrastructure safe and operational. Through consistent reliability, honest workmanship and an unwavering commitment to delivering on time, the company’s reputation grew — and so did the business.
Although the business remained a relatively small operation, they attracted contracts with large companies, called into factories and production units for fumigation and pest control, usually working overnight or weekends to prevent and minimise interruption to their clients. Their grounds maintenance, drainage and arboriculture work also grew, and now forms a major part of their services.
At the heart of Kent Services is Jack Kent’s belief that a successful business is built on research, understanding client needs, and delivering exactly what is promised. Availability, accountability and integrity are central to everything the company does.
While larger national and international companies may make bold claims, Jack believes true success lies in follow-through. At Kent Services, every commitment is completed in full — on time, on budget, and with clear, open communication throughout. Personal service and knowing who you are dealing with still remains at the heart of the Kent Services operation today.
Jack’s deep rural roots also shape the way Kent Services operates. For country people, work is not just a job — it’s a way of life. It means working long hours, in all weathers, with a genuine understanding of the seasons and the natural world.
Much of the work Kent Services undertakes today still follows these natural cycles. This knowledge allows the team to provide sound advice and carry out work at the right time, ensuring maximum long-term benefit whether working with trees, weeds or wildlife.
In 2014 Jack’s daughter Lucie officially joined the business, having grown up around her father’s work all her life. Today, while Jack is enjoying a slightly slower pace, he continues to offer guidance and insight, with Lucie and Peter Stubbings managing the day-to-day running of the company — carrying forward the values, expertise and heritage on which Kent Services was built.
Our services at a glance
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Arboriculture & Tree Services
We provide expert arboriculture services across the East Midlands region with a commitment to maintaining treescapes, and preserving the health, safety, and beauty of your trees and landscapes.
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Grounds Maintenance Services
Professional grounds maintenance across the East Midlands, delivering reliable, high-quality care for commercial, public, and residential spaces.
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Building & Property Maintenance
Comprehensive building and grounds maintenance for industrial estates, managing agents, local authorities, schools and other public or commercial facilities.
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Landscape Contracting Services
Delivering a full spectrum of landscaping services for residential, commercial, and public sector clients.
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Environmental & Ecological Services
We are a trusted leader in sustainable land management, delivering innovative green infrastructure solutions that support biodiversity, improve water management, and restore natural landscapes.
A proud legacy
Kent Services is a dedicated niche specialist in sustainability and biodiversity. We attract most of our work through client referrals and word of mouth and are proud to continue the legacy of our family-run business established 50 years ago, combining specialist knowledge with personal service.
Speak to our experts
Request a call from our team to discuss your project, or call us on 0115 983 0691.