Select Biosciences, which organises bioscience conferences in Europe and the Americas, has pledged its future to the Sudbury area by building its UK base, Woodview, on the Bull Lane Industrial Estate, Acton.

The company was launched in Sudbury by Ken Browne and Kathy Gray ten years ago and is now one of the world's leading science conference organisers, employing local people and setting up two overseas subsidiaries.

The new offices, officially opened by mayor Peter Goodchild, will also provide four extra business units for local businesses.

Mr Goodchild said: "It is pleasing that Select Biosciences is showing its continued commitment to the Sudbury area by investing in these new premises.

"It is particularly pleasing to see such confidence at a time when there are so many predictions of gloom and doom and economic meltdown among both national and international business forecasters.

"Ken's company, which organises biomedical conferences in locations throughout Europe, the Americas and beyond, was established ten years ago by just Ken and his right-hand woman Kathy Gray, but has since grown to its current strength, employing more than a dozen local people.

"It is this growth that led Ken to seek larger premises for his own company, as well as providing opportunities for other developing local businesses to share this purpose-built accommodation.

"Local architects Medusa Design and builders Addison and Byford are to be congratulated on the excellent results we see here today."

Mr Browne added: "As well as building an office for my own company, Select Biosciences, my partner Dick Roper and I wanted to invest in Sudbury's future expansion by providing four additional 1,000 square foot units to let to local businesses at affordable rents.

"We ensured they're built to the latest standards of lighting and heating. Each unit is also fully air-conditioned, ensuring an efficient and comfortable working environment."