Waters Corporation, a scientific laboratory instrument and software manufacturer, has launched its new custom-built mass spectrometry headquarters in Wilmslow.
The facility, launched by Chancellor George Osborne, has been designed and equipped to accelerate innovation in the field of mass spectrometry - a sensitive analytical technique that enables scientists to confidently measure components or contaminants present at microscopic levels.
It is routinely used to safeguard food and water supply, protect the environment, provide medical diagnosis and to develop healthcare solutions.
Brian Smith, vice President of Mass Spectrometry Operations at Waters, said: “Our new Waters Mass Spectrometry headquarters in Wilmslow marks our continued investment in the region and dedication to the north west.
"The new facility has been specially designed to enhance collaboration and drive innovation, building on the research and scores of patents that we have already accomplished in the field, right at the heart of where mass spectrometry first began, here in Manchester.”
Mr Osborne said: “I am delighted to open the new Waters Corporation offices in Wilmslow, after I helped perform the ground-breaking back in June 2012. It is a fantastic site that provides many excellent local jobs and I wish them every success here in the future.”
The new headquarters, which took less than two years to construct from ground-breaking to completion, brings together Waters’ existing mass spectrometry centres in the region consisting of more than 500 employees.
The 2,313m building includes state of the art customer demonstration laboratories, research and development capabilities and an expanded manufacturing capacity.
The site was constructed to the ‘Very Good’ BREEAM rating, with sustainability elements built throughout, including rain water harvesting tanks, solar panels and heat recovery systems.
The site also happens to be home to a number of Pipistrelle bats. The bats were found during the initial site survey, and now enjoy a newly built bat house onsite as part of Waters commitment to sustaining the local area.
