THE Tamar Science Park says its technologically advanced data centre is becoming a major boost in attracting inquiries from firms wishing to move in or expand.

The 'flagship' centre is one of only two ICT co-location facilities of its kind in the South West.

Its associated ICT services are also being credited with playing a key role in securing the contract to manage the new Innovation Centre in Pool, Cornwall, submitted in conjunction with the University of Plymouth.

Located within the TSP's Phase 4 development, the data centre is a purpose-built 90sqm ICT co-location environment, hosting 30 racks.

The science park team worked with designers to ensure it would meet clients' needs. ICT operations manager Jonathan Harris (right) said: "We were involved in every step of the design and development and have specifically positioned the facility to attract inward investment from the ICT and related technology sectors.

"It was essential we could meet expectations of start-ups, developing businesses and those already established with advanced ICT requirements, within a leading technology incubation facility. The network infrastructure, mechanical and electrical plant, security and environmental controls, position the data centre as a professional co-location facility."

Amos Swan, a director of computer services company Acronyms, said: "The data centre was an important factor when deciding whether to move to the park. It meant we can increase our offering and provide high-level outsourced IT packages."

TSP client Email Protection Agency (EPA) has moved from Phase 2 into Phase 4 of the park. Daniel Tribe, a customer service engineer, said: "We recently expanded the team and needed to increase office space.

"Moving to Phase 4 seemed the obvious option, allowing us to work next to the data centre. It's one of the top facilities in the region and well monitored by the IT team on the park."

Mr Harris founded, and currently chairs, the UK Science Park Association ICT Forum, which shares best practice in ICT delivery within knowledge-based sector parks and business incubation facilities. The group is developing a best-practice framework to help shape ICT services.

TSP is also represented on the Digital Plymouth project, to stimulate investment in Next Generation Access infrastructure, leading to higher-speed telecommunications networks.