Call to speed up campus decision

CALLS have been made for a quick decision on the second Swansea University campus off Fabian Way.

Port Talbot's two most senior politicians say the development on former BP land to the east of Swansea Docks is critical for the entire region's economic future.

Aberavon MP Hywel Francis and AM Brian Gibbons have released a joint statement urging the Assembly and key investors to fast-track the decision.

"The importance of this development cannot be overstated. The Innovation Campus has the potential to drive economic performance for the entire region over the next decades," they said.

"The campus is being developed by an exciting combination of world-leading private sector investors, Swansea University and others.

"The Swansea Bay area is part of the industrial heartland of South Wales. The campus can provide the research development and technological input to put this crucial manufacturing sector on 21st century footing.

"The marriage of academia and the private sector is one we must develop if we want the Welsh economy to prosper."

Swansea Council's planning committee objected to the scheme, only for council leader Chris Holley to admit he was disappointed with the decision, while Lord Mayor Richard Lewis branded it an absolute disgrace.

But despite the planning committee's objections, the final decision rests with Neath Port Talbot Council, as the site is in the Aberavon constituency.

Dr Francis and Dr Gibbons said: "Welsh industry needs to be at the leading edge of innovation and the transfer of scientific knowledge from the seats of learning to the workplace and on to the end consumer.

"The Innovation Campus will help make this happen.

"As a nation we must look at how we can evolve our economy. It is universally accepted that Wales needs to develop into a small, clever country if we are to achieve our economic ambitions.

"Industries based on science, technology, engineering and manufacturing are our future and they build on the continuing strengths of the main economic drivers in South Wales.

"Getting the go-ahead from the Assembly Government and other key investors for this development has now become a critical issue for our economic future."

paul.lewis@swwmedia.co.uk

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