March 18, 2024
Keele University has appointed national property consultancy Carter Jonas as leasing agent for its Science and Innovation Park. As part of its remit, Carter Jonas is supporting the launch of the new state-of-the-art 13,000 sq ft facility, Innovation Centre Seven (IC7), as well as leasing activity across the site’s further 11 established innovation-led facilities.
The completion of IC7 is a historic milestone for the University, which is celebrating 75 years since its foundation in 1949.
IC7 is focused on harnessing and developing digital technology SME occupiers enabling businesses to learn, diversify and grow in these emerging and growing markets. The state-of-the-art development includes a Data Visualisation Suite, an Augmented/Virtual Reality Suite, office space and hi-tech meeting and collaboration areas. With a BREAM rating of excellent, the facility is powered by Keele’s on-site low-carbon energy generation park, keeping environmental impact low.
The integrated Science and Innovation Park was developed as a response to the needs of employers seeking to harness Keele University’s innovative research culture, academic expertise and specialist resources and is a key part of the University’s success.
Matt Lee, Head of Science and Technology, Carter Jonas, said: “Keele University is a major contributor to the West Midlands economy – generating around half a billion pounds in gross value added annually. Its Science and Innovation Park is an essential element of its success. Acting as a catalyst for further growth, the Park attracts medical technology, healthcare, digital, and environmental businesses to the region. Recent examples include LilaConnect and Concentric Solutions relocating to the park, and the launch of the Digital Society Institute.
“IC7 is a prime example of the University’s commitment to providing the very best facilities for businesses, having been designed to support a significant uptake in the use of advanced data analytics by SMEs in the region and to leverage Keele’s distinctive expertise in this field. We look forward to working with its team to continue to grow and enhance the Park’s reputation as a centre of excellence, enabling us to attract the right tenants that will ensure its continued success.”
Ann Pittard, Director of Keele University Science and Innovation Park, commented: “Since its inception almost 40 years ago, Keele’s Science and Innovation Park has grown to become a very significant innovation hub. 1,000 staff work here across more than 50 businesses, and collectively they provide £75m in gross value added to the West Midlands economy, supporting over 1,600 jobs in the region.
“We are pleased to have partnered with Carter Jonas to help the Park reach its full potential and extend its role in creating positive outcomes for communities from Keele’s research and education.”
