GVA wins Shell Technology Centre brief

PROPERTY agent GVA has been appointed to advise the University of Chester on the development of the former Shell Technology Centre, now known as Thornton Science Park.

The university acquired the site in March and wants to use it as an engineering and technology faculty that will attract investment from private enterprise and connect students with industry.

As well as launching a new faculty, the university wants to offer incubator space to 22 “pre-start” and high growth small firms; and strike partnership deals with multi-national firms, particularly in the food processing industry.

The 66-acre site has 1.1 million sq ft across 48 buildings, including laboratories, workshop, offices, sports facilities and a restaurant. GVA has been instructed to advise the university on future developments and to market the scheme to potential occupiers.

Director Patrick Whitby said: “Thornton Science Park is undoubtedly one of the most significant and deliverable projects to come to the North West market in recent years. We are delighted to have been chosen by the University to support the project’s development.

“The new faculty will complement and support high grade private sector companies active in the environmental, advanced manufacturing and automotive sectors and provide students with the opportunity to study at a world-class facility, alongside on-site science and technology employers.

“Whilst science parks have proliferated in the UK and around the globe for at least three decades, this landmark project seeks to develop a new approach which is focused on building on the relationship between education, industry and government.”

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