Latest news: Swansea University plans £400m campus

Swansea University have proposed a 'second campus’ near Neath, which is set to create 5,000 jobs and has been described as one of the ‘biggest knowledge economy projects in Europe'. 21/09/2012

The project will cost £400m and is due to be built in two phases, with phase one costing £200m, to be finished in three years' time. It will include an innovation hub, manufacturing facility, shops, cafes and bars, student halls, a library and a resource centre.

Known as the Science and Innovation Park, the 69-acre River Neath site at Jersey Marine will eventually house 2,000 staff and accommodate 5,100 students, according to vice-chancellor Professor Richard Davies.

Funding of £90m has already been provided, with £60m coming from the European Investment Bank and £30m donated by the Wales European Funding Office.

Simon Brooks, vice-president of European Investment Bank, said, 'This scheme will not only benefit future generations of students, but develop specialist skills, drive innovation and enhance economic growth in Wales.'

Professor Davies added, 'The new facilities, world-leading research and well-qualified graduates will attract multinational companies and support the development of high-tech clusters in the region.'

He also stated that he hoped to get the final planning consent for the project from Neath Port Talbot Council in the coming weeks.