Plans for a new state-of-the-art science park have been proposed in Swindon.

The 82,188 sq m Wasdell Group facility will deliver cutting edge facilities for R&D and high-tech manufacturing.

Located at Inlands Farm, Wanborough, the new centre will also help support Wasdell's projected growth.

National planning and development consultancy Turley submitted the planning application for the development. The company is also providing planning, environmental impact assessment, landscape and built heritage services for the scheme.

Swindon Science Park will boast low-density green spaces separated by footpaths, cycle ways and water features. Only 14 per cent of the park will be built area, with 86 per cent of the site given over to green sustainable landscaping, screening and planting of native British trees.


Designed by Oxford Architects, the buildings will be constructed using the latest technology and materials, with roof mounted solar panels to generate renewable energy and green sedum roofs to promote bio-diversity, air quality and rain water attenuation.

Speaking about the submission, Turley's head of planning for the south east, Peter Lawson, said: "This facility will provide a major lift for Swindon and the surrounding area, providing jobs and boosting the local supply chain. We are thrilled to play our part in helping to deliver fantastic new opportunities for the local economy and people."

Wasdell's CEO, Martin Tedham, added: "The Government recognises the crucial role that the life sciences industries must play in UK PLC, and there are considerable opportunities for our local and regional economy if as a town we embrace the life sciences and collaborate on R&D and investment.

"Our neighbours in Reading, Oxford, Bath and Bristol are already reaping substantial rewards through making the sciences an economic and employment priority.

"With the national research councils on our doorstep, and Heathrow less than an hour away, Swindon is perfectly placed to grow its hi-tech, science-based industries too."

It is proposed that the first element of the Wasdell facility will become operational in 2021, with the remainder becoming operational over the subsequent four years.

(CM/MH)