Plans to complete a new state-of-the-art science park at Lancaster University have taken a step forward.
The university has put in a 'screening opinion' request to Lancaster City Council hoping to move forward with plans to finish building a research, commercial and teaching hub, otherwise known as the Lancaster Innovation Campus.
In 2009 (renewed in 2013 and 2016), the university was granted permission to build a science park, but planning permission has expired without the full work being completed.
The first phase of the development - a new 'Health Innovation One' building housing the university's medical school - has already been built, opening in summer 2020.
The university aims for the finished site to be a "high quality innovation campus for a range of knowledge and research-based businesses".
A Lancaster University spokesperson said: "Previous permission has now expired so a new application is required.
"One element of the previous permission was implemented, called the HI One building which houses a range of facilities including our medical school and partner co-location space.
"We are intending still to develop an innovation campus on the site which would potentially comprise a range of research and development uses."
The science park would be built on land next to Health Innovation One on Sir John Fisher Drive.
A screening opinion request usually goes in before a planning application, so the council can decide if an Environmental Impact Assessment is needed.
As well as housing the Lancaster Medical School, Health Innovation One is home to the University’s Division of Health Research, as well as a co-location space for partner organisations and event/meeting facilities.
It provides a collaborative space where the University and external partners (including NHS, commercial businesses and the local population) can tackle the wider determinants of health, leading to long-term reductions in NHS pressures by helping people live healthier lives and take a personal interest in their own health outcomes.
£35K 'Sunshine Smiles Appeal' launched to create lasting legacy for children at RLI
Runners to take on 30-hour Morecambe Promenade relay for brain tumour research
VIDEO: Clean-up under way after Lancaster and Morecambe homes and businesses hit by flooding
North Lancashire vs Lancaster, Preston and Ribble Valley: Battle over name for new council
LISTEN: Caring animal rescue charity set to move to new home in Morecambe
New healthy drinks shop opens in West End of Morecambe
LIVE UPDATES: Businesses closed and roads flooded as heavy rain hits Lancaster and Morecambe area
UPDATED: Crunch meeting called to vote on future of Morecambe club now cancelled
Morecambe-based reality show starring Tyson Fury up for National Television Award
Man and dog flee scene after attack on chihuahua in Lancaster
Mayor of Lancaster saddles up for charity race night
LISTEN: Personal trainers set for gruelling 100-mile three peaks charity challenge
Mum takes on a million steps to help school and toy appeal in memory of caring daughter
Student apartments plan revealed for derelict former Lancaster pub
PHOTOS: New images reveal plan for major renovations at Morecambe's iconic Midland Hotel
Stunning new drone images show 100 'Eric Morecambes' on beach to celebrate centenary
Rescue team's warning after motorist cut off by rising tide
Trapped person freed from vehicle after crash in Heysham
Firefighters tackle house fire in Lancaster
