Science park operator hails another strong year
GROUP’S NET WORTH SURGES BY 33 PER CENT TO £58.5M
MANCHESTER Science Partnerships (MSP) has hailed a strong performance after a year of growth, expanding their operations with an increased demand from new occupiers.
The science and technology park operator, which includes the likes of Citylabs and Alderley Park, has 2 million sq ft in its estate.
The company’s accounts for the year to September 2016 show a 33 per cent surge in the group’s net worth to £58.5m. This is up from £44m in 2015.
Chief executive Rowena Burns said: “MSP’s ownership structure and relationship with the city is unique, and gives us the opportunity to play a pivotal role in delivering growth and high value jobs in the knowledge economy.
“The international interest in the city region was palpable recently, at both MIPIM in Cannes, and at South by Southwest in Texas. It will only intensify as Manchester’s national Internet of Things demonstrator CityVerve gathers pace and the health devolution agenda advances.”
She added: “We believe in the power of both partnerships and place and both were evidenced in our successful bid for £2m of funding to create the Manchester Tech Hub within Corridor Manchester, the city’s Innovation District.”
Working alongside partner organisations Manchester Digital, Complete Resourcing, the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, MSP will create a package of services to support the growth of businesses located in the Tech Hub.
This includes access to world class talent, skills development and introductions to an active and engaged investor base.
A recent study by Tech North highlighted the important role MSP is playing in the rapidlygrowing Manchester digital economy. Manchester Science Park alone is home to more than 170 companies in the life science, health-tech, biotech, ICT, digital and creative sectors.
Rowena added: “The Manchester digital economy is enjoying strong growth with a GVA of nearly £3bn, and dynamic businesses like Cisco and Digital Bridge powering the city region forward.
“2017 is going to be a landmark year for MSP and digital enterprise in Manchester with the opening of the Bright Building – the first new build on Manchester Science Park in more than 15 years.