A Northern Ireland engineering firm has gained funding via an aerospace initiative to carry out R&D into aircraft components of the future.

Newtownards-based CCP Gransden (www.ccp-gransden.com) has received nearly £100,000 under the National Aerospace Technology Exploitation Programme (NATEP), through an Invest Northern Ireland grant D scheme (NATEP is designed to encourage SMEs to develop new technologies, and help them win new business).

The research project, which lasts 18 months, will focus on the use of thermoplastic materials with a view to reducing the processing time and making parts lighter in weight, while also making them easier to install and repair.

An Invest NI spokesman said: “CCP Gransden worked with the Northern Ireland Advanced Composites and Engineering Centre (NIACE) to develop its application and subsequent presentation, demonstrating that the proposed research would make a significant contribution to the aerospace industry. Bombardier, a key founder of NIACE, also supported the application.

Managing director Jim Erksine said: “We went through a very rigorous process in order to secure the funding, which included involvement by major aerospace companies in the UK, all of whom strongly back the NATEP scheme.

“We are indebted to Invest NI, Bombardier and other local aerospace companies for their assistance and support. We’re all looking forward to getting the project underway.”

Kevin McCann, Invest NI’s director of R&D, said: “This NATEP research project is a significant and strategic investment by CCP Gransden that has the potential to contribute to our growing aerospace sector. The knowledge and expertise gained through this research project will help the company build relationships with other aerospace companies and position it competitively to maximise future business opportunities.”

Gavin Campbell, director of engineering and technology development at Bombardier Belfast, said: “I congratulate CCP Gransden on winning this research grant, and I would encourage other local companies to take advantage of the opportunity that the NATEP scheme offers.

“Focused investment in R&D can help stimulate productivity and ultimately drive economic growth.”