Major Step Forward for £50m Innovation Park
Outline plans for a new multi-million-pound innovation park at Aberystwyth University have been boosted with backing from funding partners. The planned Green Futures Innovation Park will be based at the university’s Gogerddan campus, with a phased programme of investments valued at just over £50m.
Funding and Backing
The approved plans include a potential contribution of £14.3m through the Mid Wales Growth Deal, which is jointly funded by the Welsh and UK governments. The project is being developed as part of the Mid Wales Growth Deal portfolio, led by Ceredigion and Powys County Councils, and is progressing through the approval process.
Expertise and Focus Areas
The park will build on the university’s expertise in agri-tech, food security, plant science, bio-based manufacturing, biorefining and environmental science. It aims to boost research and development in mid Wales and create further opportunities for start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises.
Phased Development
The university will contribute existing buildings, land and infrastructure at Gogerddan, which is also home to its Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) and AberInnovation. The programme is being developed in phases, with individual projects continuing through detailed design and full business case development. Any future investment will be subject to those approvals and confirmation of funding arrangements.
First Phase Under Way
With investment from the UKRI Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the first phase of work on the major research project is already under way. This includes redevelopment of the university’s plant growth facilities as well as upgraded food-grade research spaces. The university said these redeveloped facilities are designed to meet the needs of commercial partners as well as academics by enhancing glasshouses, controlled-environment rooms and specialist isolation facilities to support more advanced research into crop improvement, food security and climate-resilient agriculture.
Future Developments
Future developments will be subject to funding and detailed project approval and will include new and upgraded fermentation facilities, a new Grain and Legumes Centre and over 2,500 square meters of modern laboratories, office accommodation and grow-on space.
Quotes from Leaders
Professor Angela Hatton, pro vice-chancellor for research, knowledge exchange and innovation at Aberystwyth University, said: “It’s great to have this backing from our partners to take the first steps forwards with this project. It will be a significant boost for innovation and opportunities for business; bringing investment, jobs and opportunity to mid Wales. Projects such as these are central to our mission: pushing the boundaries of research, knowledge and discovery, and ultimately changing lives for the better.”
Bryan Davies, leader of Ceredigion County Council, and Jake Berriman, leader of Powys County Council - joint chairs of the Growing Mid Wales Board - said: “The Green Futures Innovation Park represents an exciting opportunity to build on Aberystwyth University’s internationally recognised strengths in research, innovation and enterprise. While the project remains subject to the Mid Wales Growth Deal approval process and funding decisions, we are encouraged by the progress being made so far.”
Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith, BBSRC executive chair, added: “IBERS is a world-class research institute tackling some of the most pressing challenges in food security and climate-resilient agriculture. The Green Futures Innovation Park will build on that excellence, turning cutting-edge science into real-world impact for mid Wales and beyond.”
