A new company is being created to oversee investment and development in science and tech buildings across Liverpool.
The Knowledge Quarter Development Company (KQDC) will be specifically responsible for updating the area’s science and technology facilities and delivering new workspace and lab developments as Liverpool consolidates its position as a world class innovation district.
The special purpose vehicle (SPV) is being created by Liverpool City Council, the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University, who will each be equal partners in the new company, which will operate alongside the current KQ Liverpool strategic board.
Liverpool Science Park, Sensor City and the Accelerator are expected to be among the buildings that could benefit from new investment generated by KQDC, whose partners have identified the need to attract initial investments of £10m rising to £100m as new science and tech buildings are brought forward.
Further details of the company’s structure, objectives and likely future developments will be confirmed in the coming months.
Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson announced the formation of the new development company at the annual MIPIM international property expo in Cannes, where many of Liverpool’s property and business leaders are gathered.
He said: “In a relatively short space of time, the Knowledge Quarter Mayoral Development Zone has been a huge success for the city and we are fast becoming a global force in science, technology and healthcare, with world-leading academic institutions and new state-of-the-art hospitals on the horizon”.
Professor Dame Janet Beer, vice-chancellor of the University of Liverpool and Chair of KQ Liverpool, said: “This new vision for the continued development of the Knowledge Quarter – a new development company – is a clear statement of confidence and intent from all of the partners. Together, we intend to deliver an innovation district of international renown and a driving force for increased jobs, economic growth and opportunities for our graduates in the city.”
Professor Nigel Weatherill, vice-chancellor of Liverpool John Moores University and chair of Liverpool Science Park and Sensor City, said: “We are fully supportive of the continuing efforts to develop the Knowledge Quarter. On the evidence of progress to date, there is a unique and exciting opportunity to realise our shared vision for many years to come.”