Economy Secretary, Ken Skates has welcomed the start of construction at the Welsh Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Institute (AMRI) in Broughton.
At a turf cutting ceremony, the Economy Secretary described the Advanced Manufacturing Research Institute as a “game changer” that would provide a new level of support to business and ensure collaboration between industry, academic partners and entrepreneurs in order to drive innovation, commercialisation, up skill the workforce and provide a catalyst for economic growth.
This aligns with a number of core elements of the Welsh Government’s strategy Economic Action Plan.
The Welsh Government is reportedly investing £20m in the new institute which will have a strong focus on advanced manufacturing sectors, including: aerospace, automotive, nuclear and food.
It aims to deliver a ‘totally new level of support’ to key manufacturing companies, as well as multi-sector supply chain companies and the broader SME economy, and will be focused on increasing productivity, commercialisation, innovation and skills development.
The construction of the building in Broughton, which is due to be completed next year, is the first phase of a two site project. The Broughton site is scheduled to open by the end of 2019.
Airbus has been confirmed as the first tenant for the AMRI at Broughton which it is predicted could increase GVA by as much as £4bn over 20 years. The Welsh Government is in advanced negotiation with AMRC Sheffield to operate the Centre and has recently appointed contractor Galliford Try to manage the construction phase.
The Economy Secretary commented: “The AMRI will enable collaboration focused on innovation, research and commercialisation between industry, academic partners and entrepreneurs and I am delighted that Airbus will be the first tenant of the centre and will be progressing an exciting project here focussed on future wing technology.
“The AMRI will target commercialisation and development of world leading skills across the manufacturing spectrum as well as equipping the next generation of experts, innovators and leaders through training, to apprenticeship, to PhD level.
“This will ensure a thriving industry base that will be a catalyst for economic growth across the supply chain, increasing productivity and supporting competitiveness of Welsh industry at home and around the world.
