A NEW multi-million pound science park is taking shape in South Gloucestershire.

A topping out ceremony of the first phase of the Bristol and Bath Science Park, known as SPark, has been held marking the first major milestone in the £40million development on the edge of Emersons Green.

The first buildings to be completed on the 59-acre site are being called SPark One and will include an Innovation Centre, Expansion Centre and the hub of the park, known as The Forum. They will cost £10million and are already visible from the Avon Ring Road.

Chief executive of the park, Bonnie Dean, said: "SPark will act as a hub to connect business to new technologies and to accelerate the commercialisation of academic research.

"Topping out marks the completion of external work that makes the buildings watertight. Fit-out of the buildings will take place throughout the summer in preparation for occupation."

She said SPark One would offer tailored support for universities, entrepreneurs and young companies and further plots on the site would be reserved for bespoke buildings for corporate clients.

All buildings on the site are being constructed to the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method’s excellent rating.

The park, which has been funded by the Regional Development Agency, Aviva and property developers Quintain, will eventually be home to 6,000 jobs from fledgling businesses to established brands with the aim of creating an inspiring scientific and technology community.

The Park is home to the new National Composites Centre, which will bring together companies and academics to develop new methods for the rapid manufacture of high value composite products.

A community area will also be developed where schoolchildren and local residents can learn more about the work at the park as well as science and innovation.