The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has announced a new partnership with the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) to support SME manufacturers in the region.
It aims to strengthen engineering and manufacturing opportunities in the North West by delivering collaborative R&D projects, developing graduate talent and supporting innovation in a range of manufacturing sectors — from aerospace and automotive to low-carbon energy.
Preston-based UCLan is working with the AMRC on a number of projects (including the world’s first graphene-skinned aircraft) at its new £35 million Engineering Innovation Centre, which will be officially opened in September.
Michael Ahern, UCLan’s chief operating officer, said: “This is an important partnership for Lancashire and the North West, which will ensure that the region is an attractive destination for inward investment and for the creation of new businesses, in addition to providing the highest level of support for existing engineering and manufacturing companies.
“It also means that the area will be home to some of the best learning and applied-research facilities
in the world.”
Looking further ahead, the AMRC plans to open a purpose-built £25 million-plus facility in the Samlesbury Aerospace Enterprise Zone in 2021.
Keith Ridgway, AMRC co-founder and executive dean, said: “Within the geographies of the Sheffield City Region and Lancashire lies a unique opportunity.
“It has all the components required to equip the UK to deliver the vision of the fourth industrial revolution. This partnership with UCLan is part of realising that vision.”