Nintendo is to spend 12 billion yen on a new research development facility closer to their main offices in Kyoto.

Plans for a brand new research and development facility in Kyoto have been drawn up by Nintendo. While the new building was first discussed in 2009 it has now been announced the it will be much closer to their headquarters in the Minami Ward area of Kyoto than their current one.

Andriasang report that Nintendo hope to bring their workforce together and allow more efficient working practices by moving the buildings closer together. The new facility will house 1,500 employees, primarily focused on product development, and will be Nintendo's main research facility.

The seven story building will contain everything from meeting rooms to a cafeteria and work is expected to begin in January 2012, with a completion target of some time in 2013.