Computer giant IBM is coming to Pembrokeshire it has been announced today (Thursday).

In a deal signed this morning the new Technium in Pembroke Dock has been named as home to IBM's new centre of excellence in environmental research and modelling.

IBM say the move will allow it to support research into environmental sciences and renewable energy, utilising high performance computing and a top-end visualisation environment.' The £13 million Technium Pembrokeshire is managed by Pembrokeshire County Council having been developed by the authority in partnership with Swansea University and the Welsh Assembly.

It opened for business last year and gives businesses the innovative facilities they need to develop cutting-edge technologies, products and processes.

County Council Deputy Leader, John Allen-Mirehouse called it a "historic day" for Pembrokeshire.

"IBM is a name known all over the world as a market leader in computer technology" said the cabinet member for economic development, regeneration and business support.

"I am delighted such a major company has chosen to use Technium Pembrokeshire as a venue for its centre of excellence in environmental research.

"Creating quality green jobs' is a high priority for all of us in Wales and this has the potential to provide truly valuable employment for truly valuable research."

The centre for excellence is being supported by an additional investment from the Objective 1 programme.

It is expected to be up and running by the end of April and an open event is planned for later this year to showcase the new facilities.