Network Space Developments (NSD) has submitted a full planning application for its new Project Halo life sciences development at the St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus.
The Project Halo scheme will target life science manufacturing occupiers, bolstering St Helens’ position as a hub for innovation and manufacturing.
The proposal relates to a five-acre council-owned site located off the A570, next to Glass Futures and St Helens RFC’s home ground, and seeks to deliver four “Tech Box” units – hybrid industrial and office buildings designed to meet the needs of life science advanced manufacturing occupiers.
The scheme forms a key part of the Liverpool City Region Life Sciences Innovation Zone, which seeks to stimulate innovation and create high-value jobs across the region.
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.
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The company previously partnered with the council to deliver the landmark £54m Glass Futures adjacent to the site, a global centre of excellence for sustainable glass research and innovation.
The site has already undergone enabling works, including ground remediation, re-profiling, and the construction of a new estate road and roundabout arm at Langtree Way. These works, led by NSD, enhance connectivity with neighbouring developments and position the site as a “development-ready” location.
The application seeks approval for four high specification Tech Box units ranging from 7,629 sq. ft to 31,484 sq ft and totalling 85,000 sq ft.
The sustainable scheme will include all electric air source heat pumps and photovoltaic roof panels to minimise operational energy, electric vehicle charging points, cycle parking and landscaping aligned with the decarbonisation goals of the St Helens Campus.
The Project Halo development will particularly target synergistic life science advanced manufacturing occupiers, bolstering St Helens’ position as a hub for innovation and manufacturing.
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 Helen’s key role in the region’s Investment Zone.”
Cllr Anthony Burns, St Helens Borough Council’s leader, added: “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 anticipated to start in early 2026.
