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Swansea University accelerates expansion plans
The prospect of Swansea Bay having the largest knowledge economy project in the UK came a step closer to becoming a reality when Swansea University’s Council approved proposals to accelerate work on the University’s campus expansion plans which will include the development of a new science and innovation campus on Fabian Way.
The Council was presented with the initial findings of the Fabian Way feasibility study and agreed on the submission of an outline planning application after completion of the technical and investment appraisals in the next few weeks.
A final decision on whether to proceed with the new science and innovation campus at Fabian Way will be made later in the year.
The plans will include relocating some activities from the Singleton Park campus to the new campus. This will enable Swansea University to improve existing facilities at Singleton Park for staff and students.
Welcoming Council’s decision, Swansea University Vice Chancellor, Professor Richard B. Davies, said: “This Science and Innovation campus is an ambitious 21st Century development and is expected to be the largest knowledge economy project in the UK.
“By removing the boundaries between industry and academia, which restrict the traditional science park model, we are proposing radical new approaches to the provision of research and development, education and skills to help drive economic regeneration for the benefit of the whole South West Wales Region.
“The new campus will provide an open innovation environment intermingling industrial research and development, academic research and postgraduate and undergraduate students. This vision is made possible through substantial business support and the gifting of the land from BP.
In addition to BP, the project is being developed in partnership with Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, City and County of Swansea, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Prince’s Foundation.
Professor Davies added: “The positive endorsement from Council is particularly timely. We are confident that this development will deliver world-class education opportunities, new employment and prosperous high-tech companies; all contributing to the excellent quality of life and environment in South West Wales.”
Swansea University’s campus expansion plans build on longstanding links between Swansea University and multi-national companies. The concept of the Science and Innovation campus is the result of consultation with these companies. A number will have a substantial presence on the new campus.
This expansion plan is expected to create about 11,000 jobs and make an economic impact in excess of £3bn over 10 years in the South West Wales region.
For more information visit www.swansea.ac.uk