Jobs pledge as Chester University buys Shell research hub

THE University of Chester is promising to help create 2,000 jobs after acquiring the Shell Technology Centre in Ellesmere Port.

It wants to use the site for an an engineering and technology faculty that will attract investment from private enterprise and connect students with industry.

The financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

The centre at Thornton employs around 300 scientists responsible not only for researching high-performance fuels for Formula One engines but also for developing new biofuels.

It faced an uncertain future after Shell sold its nearby Stanlow refinery to Indian company Essar in 2011. There were reports Shell would close the facility, but last year it was talking to potential buyers.

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.

Professor Tim Wheeler, the university’s vice-chancellor, said: “The University of Chester has long been synonymous with ensuring that Cheshire West and Chester is ‘open for business,’ and our commitment at Thornton could bring up to 2,000 jobs to Ellesmere Port over the next five years, together with perpetuating Shell’s distinguished reputation.

“Thornton, with 1.1 million sq ft of space in 48 buildings, is the most substantial acquisition in the University’s history, as the institution enters its 175th year and the next phase in its evolution, which should see it sitting more prominently on the international stage – and taking Cheshire West and Chester with it.

“The engineering and technology agenda is very much a growth area for the university and the region and will complement both their existing strengths. It is also a national priority in terms both of education and training, innovation and business, so understandably, Thornton is already attracting significant interest.”

He added: “The University’s vision for the Thornton site is to build on the excellent foundations laid by Shell to create an internationally-recognised, financially self-sustaining and multi-disciplinary campus that targets and stimulates private sector growth through employment, education and inward investment. It will integrate students with employers and employees.”