A NEWPORT-BASED technology manufacturing firm has announced plans to move to a huge new facility on the edge of the city.
Subject to planning approval, SPTS Technologies is set to move from its existing headquarters in Ringland to a massive, purpose built site at the Celtic Way Business Park, near to the existing Next Generation Data Centre.
Documents show that the firm, which specialises in advanced wafer processing solutions for semiconductor manufacturers, is looking to build a two-storey manufacturing, research, and development facility – along with a number of other buildings.
These include a four-storey administration office, and a linked atrium, along with external nitrogen and oxygen storage, car parking, and associated drainage and landscaping work.
If approved, it is estimated that 460 employees would be moved to the new site, which occupies plots one and five off Imperial Way, with potential for future expansion.
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Currently, the land is mostly empty and disused – though hardstanding was built on the land several years ago, as part of LG Electronics’ development plans, which never came to fruition.
A small section of the site is currently in use as a temporary car parking space.
Alongside the planning application, artist impressions of the new site have been revealed.
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What do the proposals show?
Should Newport City Council approve the plans, which have been submitted by Capita Real Estate & Infrastructure on behalf of SPTS Technologies Limited, work could then start on the large scale project.
Listing the reasoning behind the application, a representative responsible for the plans wrote that “SPTS Technologies Ltd have outgrown their existing site at Junction 24 Ringland Way and due to the expansion of the business propose to develop a new R&D facility and administrative headquarters for ongoing and future expansion capacity.”
Along with the main manufacturing facility, plans also show a 17,500 metres squared admin building, set out over four floors.
Externally, there would be 498 parking spaces.
Documents show that the entire site would be surrounded by a security fence, and access will come via a security kiosk and security gates.
Plans suggest that the new site would have a number of benefits for staff, including:
- Open and airy office environment designed for collaboration
- Training facilities which include vision access to the production areas
- Welfare and communal spaces for both day and night shift workers, including garden areas
Along with the manufacturing and office spaces, plans show that the site would be home to a large open plan atrium, a canteen, and storage facilities.
It is not yet known when Newport City Council might make a decision regarding this application.
The application can be viewed and commented upon online here.
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