NSD submits plans for ‘tech boxes’ at St Helens innovation campus

Network Space Developments has submitted a full planning application for an employment development at the St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus. The Project Halo proposal is located on a five-acre council-owned site and seeks to deliver four state-of-the-art hybrid industrial and office buildings. The scheme forms part of the Liverpool City Region Life Sciences Innovation Zone, which aims to create 8,000 jobs and unlock £800m in public-private investment over 10 years. NSD was appointed by St Helens Borough Council as development manager for the site in 2023, following the council’s acquisition of the land with support from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. The company previously partnered with the council to deliver the £54m Glass Futures scheme adjacent to the site. The application seeks approval for four high-specification “tech box” units ranging from 7,629 sq ft to 31,484 sq ft. Totalling 85,000 sq ft, they will offer flexible employment space across use classes B2 (advanced manufacturing), B8 (storage/distribution) and E(g) (R&D laboratories, professional services, and ancillary offices). The Project Halo development will target advanced manufacturing life sciences occupiers.  The St Helens Campus will focus on materials science and health technologies, complementing the region’s strengths in infectious disease research and AI-driven healthcare. NSD development director Joe Burnett said: “This application represents a pivotal step in realising the vision for a high-quality employment space that addresses a productivity gap within the manufacturing science sector. By attracting life sciences businesses, there is the potential to create hundreds of skilled jobs while reinforcing St Helens’ key role in the region’s Investment Zone.” Anthony Burns, St Helens Borough Council leader, said: “This is another major step forward for the growth and regeneration ambitions of St Helens. It isn’t just about shiny new buildings but more about raising aspirations and creating new opportunities for our residents. In this project we will support hi-tech businesses to start up or expand operations here in our great borough. This development proposal will build on the renewed focus of our borough as a world leader in manufacturing innovation, building on our rich history for a brighter future for our residents and communities.” Subject to approval, construction is expected to start in early 2026. Support for the Halo Project has been provided by Architects AEW, GWB Consultants, Stantec, Kaizen Consulting Engineers and Spawforths.