MALVERN could house one of Britain's most environmentally friendly buildings.

Malvern Hills Science Park has applied for planning permission to build a new two and three storey building off Geraldine Road at a cost of around £5.4 million.

As well as providing office and laboratory space for up to 15 new businesses, the building would be specially constructed to reuse ground and rain water.

A heating and cooling system which uses ground water would be used to regulate temperature in the building.

Rainwater would be stored in underground tanks and used in the building's toilet systems.

The design also features a caf for workers, as well as a roof garden. All units would have high speed internet access and fast networking capabilities.

Park manager Nigel Shaw said the building would be a landmark in terms of sustainability.

"It should be a pleasant working environment," he said.

Funding is likely to come from the regional development agency Advantage West Midlands and the Government.

"Providing the funding does come through we should be in a position to start work on site in November." Work is likely to take about 40 weeks.

"The building will certainly put Malvern on the map in terms of its sustainable character and I think it will be a building of which everyone in Malvern can be proud," Mr Shaw said.

The application also includes details of two puffin crossings, one in Barnards Green and one on Poolbrook Road, as well as a cycle path from Townsend Way.

Improving access to the site will go hand in hand with its expansion.

The new building is phase three of a 10-acre redevelopment of the science park. There is another six acres near The Chase for further expansion.