Science centre could give county major jobs boost (From Western Telegraph)

Science centre could give county major jobs boost

PEMBROKESHIRE'S economy could enjoy a £3.4 million boost if plans for a cutting-edge international science and sabbatical centre receive the go-ahead.

Research at the proposed centre, and use of the county's special marine species and environment, could lead to the creation of new drugs and quicker diagnosis for cancer, heart disease, epilepsy and arthritis.

The commercial spin-off would help to fund what could become one of the top science centres in Europe. A feasibility study commissioned by the Pembrokeshire Darwin Centre for Biology and Medicine - the organisation behind the ambitious plan - said the development could create around 45 full-time jobs and up to 35 part-time jobs.

Construction and fitting-out costs of the centre are estimated to be in the region of £15.5 million. Funded by Objective One money, Cardiff-based consultants, Shared Intelligence Ltd, prepared the interim report, which highlighted a ten-year development plan for the project.

Phase one would see the enlargement of the Pembrokeshire Darwin Science Festival and the establishment of a scientific reputation. The aim of phase two would be to secure funding and design a permanent sabbatical centre.

Phase three relates to the building and operation of the centre and the establishment of long-term research programmes.

Local and national politicians, environmental organisations, UK scientists and representatives of local business and tourism have been invited to consider this interim report at a consultative workshop in Haverfordwest on September 11th. A summary of the report may be found on the website at www.darwincentre.com