Green light for Exeter Science Park buildings
Two major planning applications for Exeter’s Science Park given the green light
Devon County Council’s planning application for the flagship building at Exeter Science Park has been approved by East Devon District Council.
The £7 million Science Park Centre will enable growing businesses to flourish, offering a unique collaborative environment for innovation and business support.
It will provide a range of highly flexible accommodation for high growth, science-based organisations including managed desk space, offices, workshops and laboratories as well as other facilities such as seminar rooms and a cafe.
A further planning application submitted by Eagle One, the developer for Phase One of the Science Park, has also been approved. The building will provide for 10,000 sq ft of net useable space arranged over two floors and where Eagle One will occupy one floor for its own office space. The remaining floor of 5,000sq ft, which can accommodate ‘science and knowledge’ based uses, will be available on occupational lease terms.’
Councillor Will Mumford, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economy, Enterprise and Employment, said: “I am pleased to see these plans approved. The first buildings on the Science Park will act as a catalyst for progression despite the challenging economic conditions. The creation of this home for high tech, knowledge intensive jobs builds on our strategy for future economic growth, the objectives of the Local Enterprise Partnership and the shared vision of the East of Exeter Growth Point. This is a vital step in the delivery of this vision and a welcome endorsement of the partnership approach we are proud to be part of.”
Eagle One’s managing director, Paul Goodes added “Naturally, we are delighted that these applications have been approved and where this gives a clear commitment to this vitally important first phase of development. We intend to fast-track construction of our own building to ensure early occupation which is not only crucial to the continued growth of Eagle One but also to provide space for other users requiring early occupation in this key location.”
The first phase also includes plans for a 150 bed business hotel and conference centre. In addition the first phase will have around 40,000 sq ft of other space for science-based organisations on the site.
The Science Park will play a key role in helping the economy of the Exeter and the wider area to grow and diversify through the development of knowledge-based businesses, capitalising on links with the University of Exeter, the University of Exeter Medical School, the Met Office and Rothamsted Research, North Wyke.
