A NEW multi-million pound laboratory complex for some of the country's top marine scientists is set for Lowestoft.Defra's minister for science, Lord Rooker, said the Centre for the Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture (Cefas), would be in its new home by 2009 to guarantee the future of the laboratory, which leads research into the marine environment and fish stocks.

A NEW multi-million pound laboratory complex for some of the country's top marine scientists is set for Lowestoft.

Defra's minister for science, Lord Rooker, said the Centre for the Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture (Cefas), would be in its new home by 2009 to guarantee the future of the laboratory, which leads research into the marine environment and fish stocks.

The development, which will see Cefas move from Pakefield, is being planned in partnership with Suffolk County Council and Waveney District Council, while being championed by urban regeneration company 1st East.

Cefas and the two councils will eventually be based at the new campus.

Lord Rooker said: “We want a cutting-edge new laboratory campus which will enable Cefas to stay at the forefront of marine research.

“The agency's work benefits us all by enhancing the environment in our seas, managing their natural resources and protecting us from aquatic contamination.

“As part of Defra's laboratory strategy, this will also help to secure a sustainable future for Cefas, which remains one of our key public-sector partners.

“At the same time the development will help breathe new life into an urban area which will benefit from regeneration.”

As part of the plans, Cefas' Burnham-on-Crouch centre will close with staff moving up to the new centre in Lowestoft when it is complete.

Waveney MP Bob Blizzard said: “This is great news for Lowestoft. The decision to consolidate work and invest in a new laboratory not only secures the future of Cefas in our town, but also raises the prospects of more jobs for our area.”

Eddy Alcock, Suffolk County Council's portfolio holder for environment, waste management and economic development, said: “We are delighted to hear this news. It's a real boost to the economy for Lowestoft and the whole of the Waveney area, as Cefas provides the high quality jobs that we want here, and adds value to the local community.

“The official announcement that Cefas will be part of the Waveney Campus is very welcome, and shows how we can work with partners to provide a better way for Suffolk.”

Waveney District Council leader Mark Bee said: “The full commitment of all partners is crucial to the project's success and I am absolutely delighted that Cefas have now been given the green light to go ahead.”