European Marine Science Park

Highlands & Islands Enterprise is leading the development of the European Marine Science Park which will bring high value jobs to the Argyll area through support to life sciences companies with growth potential. Located on a 6.5 acre site adjacent to the Scottish Association of Marine Science (SAMS) on the Dunstaffnage peninsula, 3 miles north of Oban, the Park will provide circa 5,400 sq m of net letable high quality laboratory and office space over a 10 year phased development programme.

The new science park will supplement the business incubation units at the European Centre for Marine Biotechnology (ECMB) within the SAMS building which are now approaching capacity. 

Life sciences is a key sector for growth outlined in the Scottish Government Economic Strategy and HIE is working to strengthen and develop a growing cluster of such  businesses in the Argyll area.

European Marine Science Park is one of a number of  linked projects which together are known as  the Argyll Marine Science Initiative (AMSI) and which will capitalise on the unique strengths and opportunities created by the world renowned marine science laboratory at SAMS.  

Other projects  will include expansion of  UHI Millennium Institute (UHI) through development linked with additional teaching infrastructure at SAMS and the creation and implementation of the Dunbeg Master plan - a partnership project  led by West Highland Housing Association which aims to realise the aspirations for new infrastructure in the area as set out in the Argyll & Bute Local Plan.

Outline planning permission for the development was obtained in March 2009 and  design work for the first phase of development comprising two buildings is currently underway prior to a full planning application being submitted. Site servicing is expected to commence in 2010.
European Marine Science Park will be located on a unique 6.5acre site adjacent to SAMS and the European Centre for Marine Biotechnology. It is expected to deliver:

• Specialist, flexible accommodation being 5,400 m2 high quality ‘green’ laboratory/office space to house around 12 marine science related companies by 2020
• Growth of key sector – life sciences – through ongoing development of established sustainable companies and creation of new / spin off businesses
• A range of high salary jobs and excellent career opportunities – it is currently estimated that 270 direct FTEs will be created
• Increased biodiversity – through appropriate landscaping developed in partnership with local wildlife experts and SNH
• Improved access to the peninsula by road from the A85 and improved green travel opportunities thus improving road safety plus pedestrian and cycle access to the peninsula
• Reduction in carbon emissions through use of renewables and design

Business Support and Development

Innovation depends on knowledge transfer and the European Marine Science Park will provide a focus for entrepreneurial talent. It benefits from the location and the bridge between commercial and academic activity that is SAMS and the European Centre for Marine Biotechnology.

For businesses locating within the Park there will be a wealth of services and experts on hand to support and advise including:

• Research scientists: world renowned, international students and researchers at SAMS are on hand to liaise regarding current discoveries, techniques and projects
• Specialist equipment: why spend money on high tech equipment when it can be rented at SAMS for reasonable rates?
• Culture Collection of Algae and Protozoa to supply base materials
• Account managers at Highlands & Islands Enterprise to assist with growth plans, funding packages and future equity deals
• Start up business advice from Business Gateway Services hosted by Argyll and Bute Council
• Links to private investors, knowledge transfer partnerships, business angels and the like

Companies interested in more details about the development should contact:
Diane Oliver
Senior Development Manager
Highlands and Islands Enterprise
Argyll Area Office
The Enterprise Centre Kilmory Industrial Estate
Lochgilphead
Argyll
PA31 8SH