CONSTRUCTION is set to start next month on a £6million centre to support and develop fledgling medical technology businesses.

The Anglia Ruskin University Medical Business Innovation Centre (MedBIC) is expected to attract 78 businesses and create 120 jobs for Chelmsford.

It will be built on Anglia Ruskin’s Chelmsford campus and is a collaboration between Anglia Ruskin, Chelmsford City Council and Essex County Council.

It will serve as a hub to assist in the creation and growth of a significant number of start-up and early-stage companies, as well as the development of wider innovation networks for Chelmsford, Essex and beyond.

The new facility will open in spring 2014 and is expected to be home to up to 78 businesses and create 120 jobs in its first three years of operating. Through the wider activities associated with the centre, at least a further 220 businesses will be assisted in terms of development and growth.

Professor Michael Thorne, vice chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University, said the MedBIC would provide a vital role in the development of start-up and micro businesses which focus on medical technology and engineering products.

He said: “Our aim is that the Anglia Ruskin University MedBIC, combined with the Anglia Ruskin MedTech Campus, will help Essex become a world-renowned centre of excellence for innovation, specialising in near-market developments in the medical technology sector.”

Mike Smith, head of senior inward investment, economy and growth at Chelmsford City Council, said: “Chelmsford has a great record of entrepreneurship and innovation and the provision of the Anglia Ruskin University MedBIC will no doubt act as a further catalyst to capitalise on the extensive technical expertise of our larger private sector companies.”

Kevin Bentley, cabinet member for economic growth at Essex County Council, said it would be a great resource for Essex businesses to use.

He said: “There will be facilities available which will enable them to learn and grow as a business, as well as provide support and networking opportunities.

“We hope the centre will become a magnet for early-stage and growing businesses looking for a stimulating and supportive working environment.”