Plans for new £17million acquaculture research facility now a step closer

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A £17m world-class research and innovation facility at Stirling University has moved a step closer, after the ambitious plans were conditionally approved by Stirling Council planners.The National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub (NATIH), which builds on the University’s internationally renowned Institute of Aquaculture, will bring together experimental aquatic facilities, including a new tropical aquarium, with state-of-the-art laboratories, and space dedicated to business incubation and acceleration.The Hub is funded through a £17m investment from the UK Government, as part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.

The Deal is a £90.2m investment from the UK Government and Scottish Government in innovation and infrastructure that will drive inclusive economic growth throughout the region.

Regional partners, including Clackmannanshire Council, Stirling Council, and the University of Stirling, will invest up to £123.8m, resulting in a deal worth more than £214m, to be delivered over the next 10 to 15 years.Two representations were submitted to the planning application, one an objection and the other neither objecting nor supporting the proposal.

Among issues raised were parking and traffic concerns and noise.However, council planners said: “The Transport Development Team were consulted on the application and after correspondence with the applicant it has been determined that the proposed development will not create an increase in traffic.“There are conditions attached to ensure there is sufficient cycle and disabled parking associated with the development.“Environmental Health were consulted on the application and recommended a condition is attached requesting a noise impact assessment.