PLANS for part of a £20 million manufacturing and research facility are set to be given the green light.

At their meeting on Tuesday, Flintshire Council’s planning committee will make a decision on proposals for the Advanced Manufacturing and Research Institute at the Airbus factory site in Broughton.

These plans are part of a development to provide 'game changing' support to manufacturing companies announced by Welsh Government economy secretary Ken Skates, expected to be up and running by 2020.

Funding has been agreed with two separate facilities planned at Broughton and one close to the Deeside Industrial Park.

The new institute will have a strong focus on advanced manufacturing sectors including aerospace, automotive, nuclear and food.

A report from planning officer Mark Harris recommends members approve the plans, as no objections have been received, and there are hopes it will bring economic benefits and a jobs boost.

Mr Harris said: "It is understood that the proposal would be built and owned by Welsh Government and would operate on the basis of a joint tenancy between Airbus UK and The University of Sheffield’s Advanced Research Centre.

"The economic benefits from job creation associated with the development and contribution in positioning Flintshire as a centre for advanced manufacturing on a local, regional and national scale are duly noted.

"The proposed facility is also recognised as being of particular importance to the county in accordance with the aims of Planning Policy Wales which advises that local planning authorities seek to support the development of innovative

business and technology clusters.

"It is also recognised that the site falls within the boundary of the Deeside Enterprise Zone. As such the proposed development is reflective of the economic importance of this area within the growth hub."

He added: "In conclusion, it is my view that the general principle of employment development is supported as a complimentary use adjacent to the existing Airbus factory at Chester Road, Broughton.

"The contemporary design of the proposed building is considered acceptable in the context of existing employment / commercial development at this location and there is no objection from the Highway Development Control Manager."