Microsoft has unveiled plans for a new technology centre with a 35-metre tower in Southampton which could employ around 200 people within two years.
The technology giant wants to establish a “world-leading” hollow-core fibre Centre of Excellence at Quest 271 in Test Lane, on the site previously home to the Daily Echo offices.
Jobs and the move from Romsey
Microsoft Azure Fiber’s existing team of around 120 people would move from Romsey, with the workforce expected to grow to around 200 within the centre’s first two years.
A company spokesperson said,
“Hollow core fiber started in Southampton, and we want its future to be here too.
“Our plans at Test Lane for a world-leading centre would give our team room to grow, keep skilled jobs in the area and stay close to the research that made this technology possible.”
What is hollow-core fibre?
Hollow-core fibre carries light through air rather than through solid glass, which Microsoft says could allow data to travel more quickly and with less signal loss.
Converting the buildings and adding a tower
The proposals would see the two existing buildings at Quest 271 converted to provide laboratories, cleanrooms, offices, research and testing areas and specialist manufacturing facilities.
Microsoft also wants to build a 35-metre-high draw tower attached to one of the buildings, which are on the site previously home to the Daily Echo offices.
The tower would be used to make the fibre, with heated glass drawn downwards into extremely thin strands.
Microsoft says the additional height would allow it to make the fibre faster while still giving it enough time to cool.
Have your say
Microsoft is consulting on the proposals until 16th November 2026, with a planning application potentially being submitted to Southampton City Council before the end of the month.
Residents can view the virtual exhibition and submit feedback via the website.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
