A MAJOR expansion at Sci-Tech Daresbury will help create high quality jobs and cement the UK’s place as a ‘technology superpower’, project leaders have said.

Halton Council’s development management committee met at the DCBL Stadium in Widnes to rubber-stamp outline planning approval for project Ultraviolet, which will see the construction of five office and lab blocks.

The new 180,000 sq ft site will be located next to Project Violet, a £17.8m three-building office development which is still under construction and set to open soon.

The meeting was told there had been objections raised by Daresbury Parish Council around light spill and impact on the village as well as the wider conservation area, but officers said that despite these concerns, the plans fitted with the borough’s local plan – the long term strategy which underpins council planning decisions.

Speaking on behalf of the applicant at the meeting, planning agent Gavin Winter told the committee: “Ultraviolet is the next phase in the masterplan at Daresbury Sci-Tech, delivering high quality floor space and high quality jobs which will strengthen the borough’s economy, with Sci-Tech developing an important role in the sub region for science and technology research and development.”

Speaking after the meeting, John Downes, Chairman of Sci-Tech Daresbury, added: “The delivery of a further 180,000 sq ft of high-quality office and laboratory accommodation speaks volumes for our commitment to Sci-Tech Daresbury and our dedication to supporting innovative science and technology firms.

“Creating the right facilities for dynamic, cutting edge businesses in our region to thrive is not just critical for the health of the North West’s economy, but for the whole of the UK.”

“The progression of Ultraviolet is a key element of how our campus will support the government’s vision of the UK cementing its position as a science and technology superpower, and we can’t wait for the project to get started next year.”