Peel plans cannabis research centre

Regeneration and clean energy specialist Peel NRE has announced proposals for a science innovation and research centre (SIRC), sustainable energy park and medicinal cannabis facility at Braddan, Isle of Man.

The proposals which follow a recent change in the legislation for cannabis production and exportation on the Isle of Man would bring inward investment to the Island and create a once in a generation opportunity for the Island to become a leader in the emerging medicinal cannabis sector.

Peel NRE’s planning application will include details for the first phase of the development, including two units for the cultivation facility as well as an access road, engineering works and preliminary landscaping.

The proposed development will help the Isle of Man develop home-grown talent that will contribute to cutting-edge research into cannabinoids for pharmaceutical uses. By incorporating and building on innovative technologies found in cannabis facilities across the world, the development will set a gold standard for the burgeoning cannabis industry, enabling the Island to lead the way on medicinal research and cultivation best practice.

Stephen Snowdon, Planning and Development Manager at Peel NRE, part of Peel L&P, commented: “The Isle of Man Government is seeking to establish an innovation cluster on the island, dedicated to the production and export of cannabis-derived products serving the medicinal and pharmaceutical markets.

“We are excited to bring our proposals forward to help to create a new export market, more jobs and attract a range of specialist scientific and research and development industries to the Island to support the local economy.”