M-SParc (Menai Science Park), Bangor University’s Science Park, has welcomed a significant investment from the UK Government to support the next phase of development at its growing innovation campus as part of the Autumn Statement.
The strategic investment will support the fit-out of Egni, M-SParc’s second building, including its dedicated STEM Centre, strengthening M-SParc’s capacity to support the industry, innovation and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Located within the Anglesey Freeport, the investment will strengthen the region’s innovation infrastructure, providing businesses with the facilities and support needed to grow, develop new technologies and create high-quality employment opportunities.
The funding will also support the development of a dedicated STEM centre within Egni, inspiring young people to explore opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and helping develop the future skills pipeline for North Wales.
Pryderi ap Rhisiart, Managing Director of M-SParc, said:
“This is fantastic news for innovative businesses, young people & M-SParc and a significant vote of confidence in our ambitions for North Wales. We’re extremely grateful to the UK Government for recognising the opportunity to invest in innovation, businesses and skills here on in north Wales.
“As we look forward to opening Egni, our second building, in summer 2027, this investment allows us to look even further ahead to the development of a third building on our site.
“Our ambition is to create the space, facilities and support that businesses need to innovate, grow and succeed. With the opportunities presented by the Freeport and major regional developments, we have a real chance to build something special here.
“Crucially, this investment is also about the next generation. By developing a dedicated STEM centre, we can inspire young people and help ensure that the skills and opportunities created by investment in our region benefit our communities for decades to come.”
Professor Edmund Burke, Vice-Chancellor of Bangor University, said:
“This investment will contribute towards North Wales’ capacity for innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development at a pivotal time for the region.
“By supporting the growth of M-SParc and creating new opportunities for businesses and young people, it will help ensure North Wales is well placed to benefit from emerging opportunities in areas such as energy, advanced technologies and the Anglesey Freeport.
“The long-term success of our region depends on connecting talent, research and enterprise, and this investment will play an important role in achieving that ambition.”
Stephen Kinnock, Secretary of State for Wales, said:
“This UK Government funding is an investment in the skills and infrastructure that are needed to create more high-quality jobs on Anglesey.
“M-SParc is already established as a place where research and business come together to drive economic growth. This £2.5 million investment from the UK Government will push that further, building on the opportunities provided by the Anglesey Freeport and our record £2.5bn investment in nuclear.”
Supporting the Next Phase of Growth
The Egni building is scheduled to open in summer 2027 thanks to support through the North Wales Growth Deal – Ambition North Wales, the Welsh Government and the Anglesey Freeport programme, providing new facilities for businesses, researchers and innovators working across key growth sectors.
The proposed third building will provide additional space for industry, including specialist workshop facilities to support advanced manufacturing, clean energy technologies and innovation.
Together, these developments will further establish M-SParc as a focal point for business growth, research collaboration and skills development in North Wales.
Businesses interested in exploring opportunities to grow, innovate or establish a presence at M-SParc and within the Anglesey Freeport are encouraged to contact the M-SParc team by emailing site@m-sparc.com.
