A new innovation centre that could create up to 200 jobs is in the pipeline -- using expertise from Cambridge University.

The £4m development will be built at the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority site at Harwell if planners give the green light.

The scheme has been put forward by Start, a joint venture between developers and an innovation centre created by St John's College, Cambridge, 15 years ago.

One of the key features of the new centre will be to have a minimum of four resident experts to give business and financial advice to tenants.

Funding for the centre will come from a variety of sources, including individuals. It has no connection with Oxford Innovation, which has built 13 centres -- including one at Harwell.

Roger Perrin, managing director of Start, said: "We know what the Oxford Innovation model is and we are different -- the centre will be newly-built, have purpose-built laboratory and studio space and at least four business support staff which will be a combination of people from St John's and those recruited from Oxfordshire.

"We have particular links with a lot of technical staff in Cambridge University."

Ian Rodham, commercial manager at UKAEA's Harwell International Business Centre, said: "We have been aware for a long time there is a need for flexible premises for small, science-based businesses who can come and go on a short-term basis."

The new building could be open by September next year if planners at the Vale of White Horse District Council give the go-ahead.