University of Sheffield sets up AMRC Cymru

14
Dec '19

Pic: University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield has set up an Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre Cymru - a £20m state-of-the-art research and development facility in North Wales. The facility, close to the Airbus wing-manufacturing plant in Broughton, will operate an open access research area. Airbus will be its first major tenant and use it to develop wing technologies.

AMRC Cymru has been described by Welsh government ministers as a ‘game changer’ for the economies of Wales and the northern powerhouse. The facility will operate a 2,000 square metre open access research area. Airbus will be the first major tenant and will have a platform to develop their next generation wing technologies aligned to its ‘Wing of Tomorrow’ programme, which is part of a global Airbus investment in research and innovation.

Professor Koen Lamberts, president and vice chancellor at the University of Sheffield, said: ”We are really proud to be working with the Welsh Government on this bold and ambitious project which will help keep Wales at the forefront of wing manufacture and put world-leading research and development at the heart of a vibrant Welsh economy.”

“The University of Sheffield AMRC has built a truly global reputation for world-class, industry focused innovation which drives manufacturing and productivity growth and we’re delighted to be bringing our extensive expertise and experience to Wales,” Lamberts said.

Colin Sirett, University of Sheffield AMRC CEO, said AMRC Cymru is a landmark moment for both Wales and the UK. “We share the Welsh Government’s ambition and vision to spark growth and productivity for the area and are very proud of this new addition to the University of Sheffield AMRC’s stable of world-class facilities which will be a beacon for innovation and advanced manufacturing in Wales and the northern powerhouse.”

“We are supported in this by Innovate UK and the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, along with the vital backing of the Aerospace Technology Institute, which shares our ambition to keep the UK at the forefront of the global aerospace sector,” Sirett said.

“AMRC Cymru will not only help Welsh industry to develop new capabilities that build on an already rich manufacturing heritage, but it will strengthen collaboration between industry and academic partners, and put Wales centre stage with a leading role in developing cutting edge research, technologies and skills that are key to boosting productivity and growing the economy,” Sirett added.

Situated in the Deeside Enterprise Zone the facility will focus on advanced manufacturing sectors including aerospace, automotive, nuclear and food. This region has a strong manufacturing base and AMRC Cymru will build on this, driving world-class research and expertise across the supply chain.

First minister Mark Drakeford, said: “This is truly a historic day for North Wales. This is a world-class facility which, with its partners, will be a key driver in bringing the latest research, technology and skills to Deeside and the wider region.”

“The Deeside Enterprise Zone has a strong manufacturing base and this development will further strengthen its position for the future, sparking innovation and productivity. It will ensure the area is at the forefront of cutting-edge skills in manufacturing. AMRC Cymru will be of benefit for generations to come in North Wales and is part of our aim to have a more prosperous and equal Wales,” Drakeford said.

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