PART of the Ministry of Defence's North Site could provide valuable space for manufacturing generated by the Science Park, as industrial land in Malvern continues to be at a premium.

The potential for the site was discussed by officials from Malvern Hills District Council and the West Worcestershire Conservative MP, Sir Michael Spicer, at a meeting last week.

In particular, the discussions looked at the ramifications of the success of companies developing at the Malvern Hills Science Park.

Sir Michael is hoping to visit the Science Park next month to view the success of the First Phase, which is almost completely full.

Looking at the future, Sir Michael said it was entirely feasible for high-tech companies working with DERA technology to develop new products which would need manufacturing space not available at the Science Park site.

He said the future of North Site, in North Malvern, currently the home of the Army Technical Support Agency, does offer an option.

The base has been declared redundant and is scheduled for closure by the MOD in 2002.

Talks have started between the MOD and MHDC about the development potential of the site.

It is seen as a key area for new housing, as Malvern town will have to absorb 700 news homes before 2011 under draft proposals contained in the Worcestershire Structure Plan, as well as a large area of employment land.

Sir Michael said he would be approaching the MOD for a firm statement on its plans for the site.

"I really want the MOD to come clean about what their proposals are," he said.

Science Park manager Nigel Shaw said products developed by the young companies may not need manufacturing, things like computer software or licences for products, but the potential was there.

"There are opportunities for spin-out in terms of manufacturing as well as intellectual property," he said.