A WORLD class Runcorn research centre has announced exciting plans for further growth.

The UK’s leading science and innovation campus, Sci-Tech Daresbury is building 220,000 sq ft of new office and laboratory space in five or six buildings.

The centre was recently awarded £3.58 million from the Enterprise Zone Capital Grant fund to help generate 10,000 new jobs.

John Downes, chief executive of Langtree and director of the Sci-Tech Daresbury joint venture board, said: “This latest phase of development marks a key stage in our plans.

“The campus is a key growth driver for the region and the fact we are proceeding with these ambitious site expansion plans and the speculative development of the office and laboratory complex speaks volumes for our commitment and the demand for what we are proposing.

“The private/public partnership between Langtree, the Science and Technology Facilities Council and Halton Council has been incredibly effective.

“The site’s proven ability to deliver results and foster collaboration between high-tech business and government-funded science has been a critical factor in unlocking government investment.

“Investment in Sci-Tech Daresbury is critical for the health of the north west’s economy.”

It is already home to more than 100 high-tech companies, cutting edge particle accelerators and one of the UK’s most powerful super computers.

The site’s flagship Vanguard House is now 68 per cent full with 13 ground-breaking companies.

Some 163 jobs have been developed in the Enterprise Zone since 2012.

Halton Clr Ron Hignett, board member for physical environment, said: “Sci-Tech Daresbury is an important asset for Halton, the north west and the UK.

“`We have been working hard with our joint venture partners to move it to another level.

“This development will help Sci-Tech Daresbury to cement its place as the premier science and innovation campus in the UK.

“It is great news for Halton.”

John Wormsley, chief executive of the Science and Technology Facilities Council, added: “Sci-Tech Daresbury is a vibrant combination of enterprise and open innovation that is underpinned by scientific excellence on an international scale.”