Permission has been granted to the UK to the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) to redevelop its headquarters to create a leading centre for applied science.
The plans will see cefas invest £16m in its existing offices at Lowestoft by building a new and modern office facility and by refurbishing exiting laboratory facilities.
“I thank Defra, local Councillors and Planners for their commitment to these exciting proposals for our new Lowestoft Headquarters,” said Tom Karsten, Cefas chief executive.
“This project represents a vital step in realising our vision for Cefas; to deliver world class science for the marine and freshwater environment."
He said that the project will provide Cefas and Defra with significant running cost savings, greatly enhanced scientific collaboration and innovation workspace and improved environmental performance.
Refurbishment work is planned to start in November 2017 and the new office building is planned to commence in January 2018, once final partnership funding is in place. Morgan Sindall have been appointed contractors to lead the project works which are planned to complete by March 2019.
“Once complete [this centre] will help bolster our research and understanding of sea life – solidifying our position as a world leader in marine science and a champion of sustainable fishing,” said George Eustice, UK Fisheries Minister.
Cefas has provided the UK Government with scientific evidence and advice to support the fishing industry helping to ensure the sustainable use of the marine environment since 1902.
