Plans submitted for 155-acre food manufacturing campus
SmartParc today (January 7) announced that it has submitted planning for its 155-acre, high-tech food manufacturing campus on the former Celanese site near Spondon.
The planned 1.8m sq ft facility will provide manufacturing facilities, start-up incubation units and a potential location for a Food Manufacturing Technology Centre of Excellence.
It is thought that the scheme will create 5,000 jobs.
The flagship Spondon site is part of SmartParc’s ambition to provide a “new sustainable blueprint” for the industry. This will include vertical farming and smart technology to improve production and energy efficiency.
Reduction strategies for food waste, food miles and carbon output will also be implemented increasing UK food security and UK PLC competitiveness on the global stage.
Jackie Wild, SmartParc CEO said: “We are delighted to take another step forward in our plans to put Derby at the heart of the UK’s future in sustainable, efficient food manufacturing. We are liaising closely with local residents and stakeholders to ensure their views are incorporated in our plans to regenerate the site and exploring SME business and University partnerships to bring our collaborative next-generation sustainable food ecosystem to life. We are proud to be partnering with D2N2 and the City Council to reenergise the local region.”
Scott Knowles, chief executive, East Midlands Chamber added: “SmartParc will have a transformative effect on the Derby economy, creating employment and investment opportunities for the city. SmartParc will put Derby on the map as a food and drink manufacturing hub of national and international significance.”
John Forkin, managing director, Marketing Derby, said: “Smart Parc is an exciting and innovative concept that will not only create thousands of jobs but also help diversify our economy. Marketing Derby has been working with their team for some time and we are delighted to see planning being submitted so quickly. It’s beginning to feel real, which is fantastic news.”
Subject to receipt of planning permission from Derby City Council, the company’s intention is to immediately start to redevelop the Celanese site in Spring 2021 with planned opening and initial occupation by the end of the year.
