Interested firms, organisations and academic institutions gathered in York to learn more about the plans and where they could fit in.

The meeting was attended by more than 60 people and facilitator Sam Hoste of Quantech Solutions said it was very positive.

He said: “Various speakers described the benefits of a centre to the pig and poultry sectors, including Andrew Knowles of BPEX who explained the proposal in more detail.

“The main aim of the day was to give everybody the chance to give feedback and suggestions which will be incorporated in the full bid.

“The initial expression of interest for some of the £70 million Government Agri-tech grant has been submitted and the full submission is due in next year.

“I was impressed with how positive the meeting was and the superb engagement of those attending.”

Mr Hoste said the next stage would be to circulate a question and answer to explain the concept in more detail. In the New Year, a series of one-to-one meetings would be organised with all the interested companies.