Plans have been approved to create a new £16 million headquarters for the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) in Lowestoft.

Morgan Sindall will redevelop the existing Cefas headquarters by building a new and modern office facility, as well as refurbishing existing laboratory facilities.

Redevelopment work is planned to start in November 2017 and the new office building is planned to commence in January 2018, once final partnership funding is in place. Completion is scheduled by March 2019.

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Overall, the project will provide Cefas and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs with significant running cost savings, greatly enhanced scientific collaboration and innovation workspace and improved environmental performance.

Fisheries Minister, George Eustice said: "Cefas has always been at the forefront of marine research and innovation, and I'm pleased this new centre is one step closer to reality. Once complete it will help bolster our research and understanding of sea life - solidifying our position as a world leader in marine science and a champion of sustainable fishing."

Tom Karsten, Cefas Chief Executive, added: "This project represents a vital step in realising our vision for Cefas; to deliver world class science for the marine and freshwater environment."

(LM/MH)