Bison supplies Wales' first science park

Bison Manufacturing, the UK’s leading precast concrete manufacturer, has been appointed to provide its floor units and staircases for the construction of Wales’ first dedicated science park.

Based on Anglesey, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bangor University, Menai Science Park (M-SParc) will provide office, laboratory and workshop space for up to 700 people once complete, with phase one of the build consisting of a 5,000 square meter three-storey building.

To realise these plans, main contractor Willmott Dixon has tasked Bison with providing more than 4,400m2 of its 250mm deep Hollowcore floor units and three precast staircases.

Image: FaulknerBrown Architects

M-SParc’s architects, FaulknerBrowns, have included exposed concrete soffits in its designs, showcasing the quality of Bison’s Hollowcore units without the need for additional finishing. The plans also include a number of splayed angles, which will see the manufacturer work closely with the project’s steel frame contractor to meet this requirement.

Speaking on Bison’s appointment to the project, Mike Nelson, Sales and Commercial Manager said: “We’re extremely pleased to have been selected for such a ground-breaking project. Our Hollowcore floor units and staircases are not only made to exacting standards, but the concrete surfaces will also match the overall modern design of the M-SParc building.

“As the units are made under factory-controlled conditions we are able to ensure the quality standards for this important project are met.”

Tim Obrien, Preconstruction Director at Willmott Dixon added: “The Menai Science Park is a first for Wales, and will create a link between Bangor University and commercial companies in the science sector with innovative ideas and products.

“Willmott Dixon has worked with Bison on a number of projects in the past, and the quality of their units made them an obvious choice for this one-of-a-kind project.”

Bison Manufacturing began delivery of its units to the site in mid-January, with all deliveries set to be completed by the beginning of April 2017.