8th December 2000

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Sir Reg Empey MLA, launches the first phase of the Science Research Park.


The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Sir Reg Empey MLA, today launched the first phase of the Science Research Park at the University of Ulster’s Coleraine campus. Today’s launch represents the first Science Park development in Northern Ireland and is the result of more than £6 million in capital investment by the University.

The new buildings are the first on the Coleraine campus other than residences for more than 25 years and represent a new era of development at the University.

The first phase will be completed by May 2001 when two fully equipped buildings will be in operation. Already the University is on target for full occupancy of the state-of-the-art facilities.

The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gerry McKenna said:

“We are delighted that the Science Park has reached this stage of development so quickly. It will support the start-up, incubation and development of innovation-led knowledge-based business. In providing an environment where larger businesses and international businesses can develop we are contributing significantly to inward investment. Already there are important collaborations, taking advantage of the world-class biomedical research at the University. This can only enhance the work being done at the University and by business and industry locally.”

Dr Chris Barnett, Chief Executive of University of Ulster Science Research Parks Limited said:

“There has been an upsurge in interest in Northern Ireland for inward investing biotechnology companies and this is reflected in the demand for space in the Park. The rapid development of the Park has been due to our work with our partners including Coleraine Borough Council, the IDB, IRTU and LEDU. We have already received significant interest from the companies who are keen to work with the University and form new ventures. At completion we expect that the Park will provide jobs for 1300 people.”

Welcoming the launch of the Science Park, the Mayor of Coleraine, Councillor Liz Johnston said:

“The emerging biotech industries offer huge opportunities not only for local entrepreneurs but also for us to attract all-important inward investors. Already Coleraine has, through the University, the intellectual strengths and internationally acclaimed expertise which are essential for the successful development of biotechnology industries.

“The opening of this Science Park will be an invaluable resource allowing this process to continue through the clustering of world class companies thereby confirming our future in these exciting industries. By capitalising on our strengths in science and technology, and the entrepreneurial drive of our business leaders, scientific researchers, students and the wider community, together we can help build the future prosperity of Northern Ireland.

“Coleraine Borough Council, in partnership with the University of Ulster and others, is ensuring that we capitalise on those unique advantages to the benefit of the whole of Northern Ireland.”

Dr Chris Barnett paid tribute to the partnerships that have contributed to the rapid development of the Park. In particular he highlighted the role of Limavady Borough Council, Ballymoney Borough Council, Coleraine Borough Partnership the Northern Ireland Science Park Foundation, IDB, LEDU, IRTU, Coleraine Borough Council and partners in the private sector.

Further information is available on the UUSRP website.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office, Department of Communication and Development
Tel: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk