Cefas has delayed filing its application for the redevelopment of its premises until this Friday, July 21.

Eastern Daily Press: The company is an expert in marine science. Picture: James BassThe company is an expert in marine science. Picture: James Bass (Image: (C) Archant Norfolk 2013)

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, based on Lowestoft's Pakefield Road, was originally expected to send the application to Waveney District Council on Friday, July 14, but the process has been pushed back so design work could be finalised.

The marine science experts need to construct a new office building to save £2m per year, or they may face having to relocate.

Redeveloping would guarantee 440 local jobs, but would lead to the demolition of Cefas' current site at the old Grand Hotel which is too expensive to run.

A Cefas spokesman said the reason for the delay included 'further thermal modelling of the naturally ventilated building and daylight modelling, as well as further design responses to this work.'

Eastern Daily Press: The current site is too expensive to run and not operationally fit for purpose. Picture: James BassThe current site is too expensive to run and not operationally fit for purpose. Picture: James Bass (Image: (C) Archant Norfolk 2013)

Despite the application being filed seven days later than planned, it is still expected to be determined at the planning committee meeting on October 10 this year.