The Government’s vision for a new era of British innovation has been warmly welcomed by Peel Environmental – the company behind Protos.

Prime Minister Theresa May has unveiled plans for an ambitious industrial strategy, involving a pledge to unlock £2billion investment per year in research and development, as well as an Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund to back projects in high-tech sectors.

Protos – a landmark development in the North of England focusing on energy, innovation and industry – has strong synergies with Government priorities.

Forming a strategic alliance with the University of Chester’s neighbouring Thornton Science Park, Protos will see a centre of excellence developed where education and industry sit side-by-side.  This approach will help retain the brightest minds within the Northern Powerhouse and build on the region’s reputation in science and innovation  – boosting productivity and the UK’s commercial output.

Myles Kitcher, Director of Protos, said:

“The Government’s ambition to transform British business by backing new ideas and skills should be wholeheartedly welcomed.  If we are to retain our skilled workforce it is vital we create the right opportunities and be at the forefront of new technologies on the world stage.

“Protos, our flagship development site in the North of England, is built around this idea of creating an industrial strategy.  By forming links with education institutions and high-tech research facilities, we are creating an environment where new ideas can be deployed on a commercial scale.

“We were bolstered by the recent inclusion of Protos in the Government’s Northern Powerhouse Investment Opportunities Portfolio.  This, combined with new vigour behind a joined-up industrial strategy, could herald a new era for energy, innovation and industry particularly in the North.”

Protos is expected to deliver over 3,000 jobs once operational and a £350 million GVA boost to the economy each year.  Located between Ellesmere Port and Chester, and within easy reach of Liverpool and Manchester, the 51ha consented development site is now under construction and also forms part of the recently-created Cheshire Enterprise Zone.