Environmental Technology Centre for Shrewsbury

Work has now started on an innovative new Environmental Technology Centre in Shrewsbury.

The centre, which will house a number of environmental consultancies, will create around 90 jobs.

The Rural Regeneration Zone is providing pounds 500,000 towards the pounds 1.8 million scheme.

RRZ chairman Peter Pawsey said: “Shrewsbury is already home to a number of environmental technology companies.

The project will help this industry to further flourish whilst also creating a showcase development in the West Midlands for demonstrating sustainable energies and construction.”

Frank Galliers has been appointed as main contractor and will be working with design team partners to provide low energy buildings.

These will use biomass for heating, solar photovoltaics for electricity production, heat recovery from the ventilation system and high levels of insulation.

The core of the building will be a glulam timber frame constructed using Forestry Stewardship Council Certified timber.

Galliers managing director David Alexander said: “We are pleased to be the main contractor on this exciting project and keen to be at the forefront of best practice in the construction of environmentally sustainable buildings.”

The project is also innovative as a joint venture initiative between Shrewsbury and Atcham Council, the Advantage West Midlands- funded Rural Regeneration Zone, Indigo Seven and Water Management Consultants Pension Fund.

Councillor David Roberts said: “This is a great example of a public/private sector initiative through which all parties can benefit.

“The development will not only produce an outstanding environmental building but will also create around 90 new jobs.” The centre is due for completion by the autumn.

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