‘Several hundred' new jobs in pipeline from development expanding complex
Redcar and Cleveland Council recently approved plans for new advanced manufacturing facilities, laboratories and office space in an expansion of the Wilton Centre.
The science park is one of Europe's largest research and development facilities, housing a total of 60 global and regional businesses in the chemical, manufacturing, material, and life science industries.
Operator the Pioneer Group said the plans translated to a 'significant investment' with potentially several hundred new jobs to follow in the years to come.
In all, there will be 16 units providing technical development space, a two-storey incubator building containing 14 fully-equipped laboratories, as well as five offices.
Executive director Toby Reid said: 'Companies at the Wilton Centre are tackling a range of issues from difficult to recycle materials to removing fossil fuels from manufacturing processes.
'The new development will allow more companies like these to get started and scale their processes in purpose built facilities, creating jobs and ultimately positively impacting the health of our planet.'
Steve Duffield, director of the Wilton Centre, which is marking its 50th birthday this year, said: 'This is great news for Teesside, the Centre and the scientists, researchers and support staff who will hopefully be working here in the not too distant future.'
Architectural designs have been provided by Logic Architecture, based in Middlesbrough's Boho Zone.
The plans were first submitted to the local authority towards the end of December 2023 and have been subject to extensive consultation with a number of statutory bodies and stakeholders.
The Wilton Centre has Teesside Freeport status, meaning occupiers benefit from a range of incentives, including savings on stamp duty, business rates and National Insurance contributions.
A recent study suggested lack of laboratory space in the North East is hindering the development and expansion of the region's science and technology sectors.
A report arising from the study concluded that addressing this shortage was 'crucial' for fostering a thriving environment for research and development.
The Pioneer Group is a leading developer and operator of life science and high-tech campuses and manages 12 leading innovation locations across the UK and Ireland.
For information about the Pioneer Group and the Wilton Centre visit https://thepioneergroup.com/locations/wilton-centre/
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