The planning application for an Electronics and Photonics Innovation Centre has been approved by Torbay Council.

Mayor Gordon Oliver said: “Torbay is one of the top-five locations in England for photonics expertise and a key location for advanced electronics engineering.

EPIC will provide an important centre for research, product design and new development in cutting-edge technologies.”

The project (www.torbaydevelopmentagency.co.uk) comprises a 3,834m² purpose-built innovation centre with 15 laboratories and clean-rooms, up to 27 offices, a reception and meeting rooms.

It will support the growing high-tech sector in Torbay — and across Devon and Somerset.