Wilton Centre marks 50 years as a leader of excellence in biomanufacturing and the circular economy
Last week, the Teesside business community and local guests came together at Wilton Centre, near Redcar, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the iconic research space, a renowned landmark in Europe’s R&D landscape.
Pioneer Group, the UK’s specialist in life sciences space, community and venture building, led the Centre’s celebration, marking five decades of empowering companies and entrepreneurs to shape the circular economy.
The anniversary event united longstanding site members, whose combined service totals 170 years, with current occupiers, as well as the Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, Councillor Ian Hart, and representatives from local charities, Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice and Footprints in the Community.
Highlights of the day included speeches, a premiere of a commemorative mosaic and video, lunch and networking, with a special anniversary booklet sold to raise funds for the Middlesborough branch of Zoe’s Place, a long-time charity partner of Wilton Centre.
Wilton Centre Site Director Steve Duffield, who has worked onsite for 29 years, reflected: “It is incredible that Wilton Centre has been at the heart of science and innovation for half a century. When I first joined in 1996, Wilton Centre was already a landmark of research and discovery. What has kept it special ever since are the people – those who’ve worked behind the scenes to maintain, develop, and reimagine the space for each new generation of innovators.
“The breakthroughs made here have shaped industries, products, and everyday lives. From materials that transformed global manufacturing in the 1970s to today’s pioneering work in sustainability and life sciences, the spirit of innovation remains constant.”
Toby Reid, Executive Director of Pioneer Group, commented: “As we mark 50 years of Wilton Centre, it’s inspiring to reflect on its remarkable journey – from a traditional research facility to a thriving innovation hub that supports science, technology, and enterprise in the North East and beyond. Today, Wilton Centre is home to a diverse and resilient ecosystem of businesses, ranging from university spinouts to established companies, all working on pioneering solutions in bio-manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, clean energy, and the circular economy.
“Our community is tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from reducing industrial carbon emissions to developing sustainable materials and medical breakthroughs for the benefit of human health.”
As well as looking to the future, Wilton Centre is reflecting on its roots. In 1975, it became home to 1,300 staff as ICI’s Petrochemicals Division HQ. Though ICI’s breakup and AkzoNobel’s 2008 acquisition are well known, its spirit of research and discovery lives on at the Centre through occupiers like Mura Technology, which has developed the Mura Wilton commercial-scale hydrothermal advanced plastic recycling facility nearby.
Speaking at the event, Councillor Ian Hart, the Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, said: “I remember the building being built in the 70s, because that was the time my father worked in the toner plant here. It’s been a long time since I visited, but it’s great to be back today to see the site and how it has developed into a fantastic place of research and development.”
Currently, approximately 60 businesses operate from Wilton Centre. Following recent planning approval, there is scope for significant expansion. Pioneer Group is set to develop almost 150,000 sq ft of new laboratory, technical, manufacturing, and office space within the Teesside Freeport boundary.
Occupants of the new Wilton Freeport development will benefit from a suite of government incentives, including reduced Stamp Duty, Business Rates, and National Insurance contributions, offering an attractive proposition for growing science and technology businesses.
“Backed by purpose-built infrastructure, Freeport incentives, and the strength of Pioneer Group’s mission to improve human and planetary health, Wilton Centre will be uniquely positioned to lead in both discovery and commercialisation.” Toby Reid explained. “Looking ahead, we remain committed to nurturing innovation, sustainability, and meaningful collaboration.”
This collaboration is only possible through the strength of the Wilton Centre’s ecosystem and community, as Chris Geary, Wilton Centre’s Associate Site Director, who has been onsite for over 10 years, explained: “The most unique thing about Wilton Centre is the cohesive and collaborative approach of the entire team, from accommodation, to operations, financing, cleaning and security. It’s a real people-focused and target-driven community.”
Wilton Centre Technical Services Manager John Lee has been at the site for thirty-five years. He shared: “When you’re at Wilton Centre, you become part of the family, part of the furniture – you grow up here! It becomes your life. Thirty-five years later, and I still love coming here every day.”
For more information, visit: https://thepioneergroup.com/locations/wilton-centre/
