The Alderley Park site could be reborn as a state-of-the-art science hub.

Plans were already in place for a bio-science centre at the site before the crushing jobs blow.

A task force including government ministers and local MPs and councillors has now been set up to help speed up the project – and attract new science firms to the site.

It is hoped AstraZeneca scientists who don’t want to re-locate may be tempted to set up ‘spin-off companies’ at the site.

Cheshire East council leader Michael Jones revealed he had already been contacted by one firm interested in transferring 100 jobs to the site. He said: “We will now need to accelerate our emerging plans for a new bio-science park and incubator, as part of a drive to foster growth of the life science sector in the region and maximise the wider potential of the site for future development.

“I believe that with the collective efforts of the north west scientific community, life sciences business, Cheshire East council and government, that we can build a sustainable and vibrant future for our science sector. We have all the ingredients – we just need the backing and initial up-front investment from government through the task force led by the minister for science David Willetts MP  – and AstraZeneca.”

Macclesfield MP David Rutley said: “Sadly, this will create uncertainty for employees at Alderley Park, many of whom live in the Macclesfield constituency. Our first thoughts are with them and their families.  As local MPs, both George Osborne and I have been in active dialogue with AstraZeneca about the support that will be available to provide careers advice and review career options.

“The next priority is to ensure that there is a sustainable and successful future for the Alderley Park site itself.

“I am pleased that following discussions with George Osborne, the company has decided to retain at least 700 employees at the site.

“The creation of a new task force by the government and AstraZeneca is another important step in developing plans for the site’s future.

“We are all determined to make sure that the area retains a strong science skills base.”