The Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), which supports manufacturers of all sizes, is expanding from Sheffield into the North West, with a new facility earmarked for Lancashire.

Currently based at the University of Sheffield, the AMRC (www.amrc.co.uk) works with manufacturers to introduce advanced techniques, technologies and processes into their operations.

The proposed expansion into Lancashire will see a new facility based at the Samlesbury Enterprise Zone in Preston, to integrate with the strong aerospace presence in the area. It was originally mooted in 2017 as part of a £70 million Growth Deal funding allocation for Lancashire.