Bangor University science park boss to step down – regardless of Anglesey General Election outcome

The director of a £21m pound science park intends to relinquish his role even if he fails in his bid to become an MP.

Ieuan Wyn Jones stood down as the Assembly Member for Ynys Môn in 2013 to lead Bangor University’s Menai Science Park project at Gaerwen, which is currently being built.

But having been selected by Plaid Cymru members last week to once again contest the parliamentary seat in next month’s General Election, the former party leader says he intends to stand down from his role with the M-SParc development even if he fails in his quest to return to Parliament.

Bangor University , in a statement, said today: “Ieuan Wyn Jones has successfully led the science park through its development phase, and it was always his intention to step down as director when the park becomes operational in the next few months.

“The project is on track, within budget and has a healthy pipeline of potential tenants who we expect to be the first occupants when the first building is complete.

“A full team of staff is in place to deliver the support necessary for a successful science park operation.”

Its expected that the main build will be completed early next year, with interest having already being expressed by potential tenants with a focus on low carbon and renewable energy businesses.

Having been built thanks to £10.2 million of EU funding with another £10.8 million coming thanks to the Welsh Government , the project is tipped to create around 700 jobs in the long term.

According to Mr Jones, if re-elected to represent the seat he held in Parliament from 1987 to 2001, he would use his position to raise further awareness of the development.

“The first building is on its way, and in partnership with Bangor University the aim is to create hundreds of jobs in innovative companies.

“As MP I would ensure that I would promote the park’s developments to benefit the economy.”

Bangor University did not confirm if Mr Jones’ role would be re-advertised after he steps down.

Albert Owen, the MP since Mr Jones stood down to concentrate on his Assembly seat in 2001, currently holds a 229 majority and has already been re-selected by Labour to try and retain the seat for Welsh Labour on June 8.

Other parties are expected to select their candidates over the coming days.

Have your say on this story using the comments section below