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Leicester Science Park, a major regeneration project creating thousands of jobs, came a step closer with the official opening of what will become a tree-lined boulevard. In a VIP opening ceremony, the first of dozens of trees was planted to form a leafy gateway to the science park and the National Space Centre.
The road, between Abbey Lane and Exploration Drive, was jointly funded by East Midlands Development Agency (emda) and local developers William Davies and Sowden Group, and constructed by Danaher and Walsh. Leicester Regeneration Company Chairman Neil Morris was joined by representatives from Leicester City Council, emda, LSEP, De Montfort University and Leicester University at the event. The ceremony also marked the start of landscaping on site, with Neil Morris joining forces with the Leader of Leicester City Council, Ross Willmott, and Bryan Jackson, chairman of emda, to plant the first tree. The structural landscaping will create a boulevard of trees lining the access road, enhancing the science park site and the entrance to the National Space Centre. The landscaping works will be completed at the end of April. The Science Park aims to retain science-based graduates in the city, and will create over 2,000 jobs in the city in science-based ventures. As a whole, Leicester Science Park covers 16 acres. It comprises two sites – one fronting Abbey Lane and the Council owned John Ellis School site. Both sites have planning permission for science uses and have been cleared for development. LRC are working with Leicester City Council and emda to select a lead developer for both sites. On an adjoining site, Ingleby will be building offices, riverside homes and a car showroom. Neil Morris said: “It is great to see all of our partners coming together to celebrate the opening of the road and the start of landscaping. This is another big milestone in the regeneration of the city and another step closer to seeing a Science Park completed. We have two fantastic universities that have excellent science and innovation facilities, and these sites will provide jobs that will enable graduate retention.” Bryan Jackson, Chairman of emda, said: “We believe that the development of skills and expertise in science and innovation is vitally important for the future of the region. emda is proud to be supporting the creation of the Leicester Science Park; it will be a great asset for Leicestershire and the East Midlands and will also assist us in our aim to build a flourishing region by 2020, where skilled people work in thriving, innovative businesses." Cllr Ross Willmott, leader of Leicester City Council said: "The start of the science park marks the realisation of a commitment the Council made five years ago when I invested £6.85 million in moving the Council's waste depot. This move made the science park possible. I would like to thank emda, Ingleby and the LRC for their investment and commitment to making the science park a reality." Photo Caption: L-R Neil Morris, Ross Willmott and Bryan Jackson plant the first tree at Leicester Science Park. For
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