The objective of the Innovation Martlesham project is to redevelop BT's Adastral Park R & D Centre into an open innovation park with BT as the anchor tenant.  The main objective is to increase the wealth of the region by reinforcing the sustainable and globally competitive Martlesham cluster.

Scope of the Project

The project scope extends from its current early stage of inception to the completion of the building for occupation for businesses.  The Haven Gateway Partnership grant will contribute to the total capital costs for the scheme including professional fees and costs.

The Innovation Hub project represents one component of a larger project, Innovation Martlesham.  Another strand of the project is the Knowledge Hub, which aims to establish a base for regeneration and development linked to academic institutions.

Aims of the Project

To establish an innovation hub, with business incubation facilities, that will promote the open innovation agenda at Adastral Park.

Outcomes of the Project

• The creation of an innovation hub, with business innovation facilities, that will promote the open innovation agenda at Adastral Park.
• Increased commitment of BT to the region, coupled with development of Adastral Park.
• Support for development and enrichment of the ICT cluster.
• Increased number of businesses locating to the park.

Status

Funding for 2008/09 £1,000,000 (funding reallocated to other projects, August 2010)

Funding for 2009/10 £500,000 (funding allocated to other projects, August 2010)

Status as at 30 September 2008:

• Initial preparatory work being undertaken.

Status as at 31 December 2008:

• Discussions continue with potential major fundholders on whether the knowledge hub will be a refurbishment or rebuild.

 Status as at 31 March 2009:

• Discussions continue with potential major fundholders.

Status as at 30 June 2009:

• Site survey completed in May.
• Architects appointed in June.
• Design work underway but not complete.
• EEDA funding confirmed.

Status as at 30 September 2009:

• Design and architectural work is now in progress.
• SPV development work has been completed.
• Negotiations ongoing to secure the delivery of this project within budget and timescale.

Status as at 31 December 2009:

• Unexpected issues have arisen which have taken a significant amount of time to resolve.
• Discussions taking place to lead to greater clarity by end of January.

Status as at 31 March 2010:

• Martlesham Innovation Centre Ltd established and first board meeting held.
• Design and Build tender issued and four bids received.
• Evaluation now taking place and decision expected by the end of April.

Status as at 30 June 2010:

• This project has not been delivered in line with the project definition form.
• It has proved impossible to deliver a new build facility to meet funders requirements within agreed budgets and timescales.
• The project as outlined originally has been shelved for a number of smaller scale facilities using existing buildings.
• No further claims will be made for this project as defined in the original project definition form.

Project stopped.