AmeriCann Inc. has obtained approval to add a 30,000-square-foot research and development area at its previously approved 1-million-square-foot medical marijuana cultivation and processing facility in Freetown.

The expanded plan for the Massachusetts Medical Cannabis Center (MMCC) includes a new research facility in the first phase, which also will include 130,000 square feet of cultivation and processing space, AmeriCann announced Wednesday.

The Freetown planning board approved the expansion Tuesday night.

Increasing demand for medical marijuana in Massachusetts prompted the expansion, which will enable AmeriCann to increase production capacity, the company said in a statement.

“The goal is to make MMCC the place in the Northeast U.S. for the creation of a wide variety of exciting new advanced products for medical cannabis patients,” CEO Tim Keogh said in a statement.

The research facility will be used to test new systems and equipment including lighting, nutrient lines, plant science, greenhouse coverings and environmental controls.

A real estate affiliate of Denver-based AmeriCann Inc. acquired a vacant 53-acre site on Campanelli Drive in October from Boston Beer Co. for $4.5 million.

AmeriCann in April signed an agreement to supply medical marijuana to Coastal Compassion Inc., which is seeking state Department of Public Health approval to open a dispensary in Fairhaven.