A newly created hi tech science park on Ellesmere Port ’s outskirts is opening its doors to the community tomorrow (November 20).

The University of Chester ’s Thornton Science Park in Ince was acquired by the university from Shell in 2013.

The 66 acre site is home to the university’s newly formed faculty of science and engineering and a growing number of firms many of whom are based at the site’s High Growth Centre which was co-funded by the university and the European Regional Development Fund.

The centre is intended to offer small and medium sized enterprises and new start-up businesses valuable advice and support.

The University of Chester's newly created hi tech science park on Ellesmere Ports outskirts is opening its doors to the community this Friday (November 20)
The University of Chester's science park

Visitors to the open day will be able to tour the university’s facilities, see scientific demonstrations and speak to staff and students.

There will also be talks and presentations about Thornton’s history, present and its future.

Guided tours will be on offer including demonstrations of 3D printing, drone flying (weather permitting), mechanical workshops including boat building, lab demonstrations and computer games development and design. There will be a presentation on cyber security at 3pm.

Refreshments including tea, coffee and light nibbles will be available.

A full programme will be provided on the day. Talks will take place between 1.30pm and 2.30pm followed by tours and demonstrations from 2.30pm to 4pm. From 4.30pm until 7pm there is will be an opportunity for members of the local community to attend evening drop-in sessions which will include selected demonstrations and refreshments.

Prof Nick Avis, provost of Thornton Science Park and executive dean of the faculty of science and engineering, said: “The university is delighted to be hosting our community open day at Thornton Science Park and we welcome everyone to come along and find out more about what we do.

“This is a great opportunity for us to showcase this very impressive site and all are welcome to attend.

“Entry is by ticket only, so please go to http://tinyurl.com/tspopenday to book.”