Menai Science Park approved

Bangor University has been granted outline planning permission for a 245,000 sq ft science park in Anglesey, North Wales.

The Isle of Anglesey County Council planning committee unanimously approved an outline planning application for the development of the science park, with a focus on renewable energies and environmental technologies. The site will be made up of eight buildings of between two and three storeys.

The scheme is being delivered by M-SParc, a subsidiary company of Bangor University. M-SParc is targeting university spin-out companies in the life sciences and environmental industries as occupiers. John McAslan & Partners was the architect.

Bilfinger GVA in Manchester acted as planning advisor.

Negotiations are now ongoing in respect of planning conditions and a S106 agreement for transport improvement contributions. It is hoped a decision can be issued by the end of the month.

Hayley Knight, principal planner in Bilfinger GVA's Manchester office said: "As noted by a number of the councillors the proposals are fully in line with the island's economic focus on renewable energy and environmental technology and will provide excellent opportunities for North West Wales to retain graduates from Bangor University as well as attracting investment from elsewhere."

Bilfinger GVA's Manchester building team are now in the process of project managing the delivery of site infrastructure, with the first building anticipated to be finished in 2017.

The project is funded through the Welsh Government and the European Regional Development Fund.