Keele University and Business Science Park

Ambitious plans to transform Keele University Science & Business Park into the ultimate campus for the 21st century moved a step closer in 2007 after Advantage West Midlands approved £8.3 million funding towards the scheme.

The expansion proposals for 15 hectares (38 acres) of mixed-use development of high-quality commercial buildings for knowledge-based companies, academic research facilities, a specialist conference and training centre and student residential accommodation.

Another 13 hectares (32 acres) will incorporate open space, landscaping, roads and services. All of the existing mature woodlands surrounding the site are to be retained as a backcloth to the development.

The flagship scheme is expected to create around 1,100 new jobs and 40 high-quality businesses. Construction work is expected to start in 2008 and continue over the next ten years.

The existing Keele University Science and Business Park includes specially designed, high-specification buildings at IC1 and IC2, MED IC3 and MED IC4, which now accommodate a variety of innovative and prestigious knowledge-based, medical technology businesses.