Next step for Pioneer Park development
Work that will pave the way for the development of a space park at Leicester’s Pioneer Park could get under way in spring next year.
The city council plans to clear a six-hectare site on the former John Ellis site and prepare it for development by addressing flood risk and drainage issues, creating new access to the site and providing essential utilities.
As part of the scheme, the council will create better connections for pedestrians and cyclists between the site, the National Space Centre and the Abbey Pumping Station, while enhancing the public realm.
The council will also acquire two further brownfield sites in the area – both currently owned by the Homes & Communities Agency – to secure their future use as employment land for hi-tech businesses.
Professor Martin Barstow, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Strategic Science Projects and Director, Leicester Institute of Space & Earth Observation, said: “This announcement is another step in the exciting journey to create Space Park Leicester. The work outlined by the City is an essential precursor to the building plans of the University and cements the close partnership we have in delivering the Space Park vision and the wider ambitions for Pioneer Park.”
The infrastructure works at Pioneer Park will be supported by the Government’s Local Growth Fund. A sum of £5m was allocated to the project as part of a £13m award that will also support the University of Leicester’s proposals for a space park at Pioneer Park.