A LANDMARK contract has been agreed for a major new building at the Harwell International Business Centre, writes David Duffy.

The 32,000 sq ft building for AEA Technology, which will be used for offices and training, will be owned and operated by UKAEA and developed by ProLogis Developments.

It is the first part of Harwell International Business Centre's expansion programme.

Steven Moss, head of the UKAEA central property unit, said: "We are extremely pleased that AEA Technology, already a major tenant at Harwell, is making this important investment in the site.

"We welcome too the participation of ProLogis. This development is an important step forward in the realisation of the UKAEA's plans for the regeneration of this world-renowned centre of science and engineering."

AEA Technology offers science services, products, consultancy, software and technology transfer.

Its main markets are oil and gas, rail, defence, pharmaceuticals, utilities and infrastructure, processing and manufacture, and the nuclear industry.

Engineering software, biotechnology, energy technology and nuclear technology are key strengths of AEA Technology's operations at Harwell, which is also its headquarters.

Susan Adams, head and property and facilities at AEA Technology, said: "The new building is very good news for AEA Technology and the Harwell International Business Centre. It will provide excellent modern accommodation for our successful engineering software business."

Jason Dalby, vice-president of developers Prologis, said: "Harwell International Business Centre provides tenants with a well-established centre with an exciting future."