Plans to establish a new link building and refurbish a site at Norwich Research Park have been given the green light.
The proposals include the renovation of two sites at the John Innes Centre (JIC) and the construction of a new link building to bring the pair under one roof.
READ MORE: £160m funding announced for Norwich Research Park by BBSRC
Planning documents submitted to South Norfolk Council claimed the current facilities are "constraining the potential of the JIC for research achievement in the long term due to inadequate space, outdated/ageing facilities and inflexible and disconnected accommodation".
Works will be carried out on buildings B35 and B50, with internal refurbishment including the installation of a mezzanine floor in the latter.
The link building will be constructed between the two sites in order to connect the operations.
South Norfolk Council has approved the application on the condition that work begins by May 2026.
READ MORE: Massive £317m investment to kick-start huge plant science centre on city outskirts
The news comes as Norwich Research Park secured a "transformational" investment fund worth £317.7m.
This will see the construction of a ground-breaking plant and microbial science centre.
The grant confirmed by the UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) Infrastructure Fund is a "major step forward" for plans to create cutting-edge new facilities for the John Innes Centre and the Sainsbury Laboratory.
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