Centre of Engineering Excellence opens at Southampton Science Park

By Tom Kilkelly

2 October 2023

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Credit: University of Southampton

A new regional centre for engineering excellence at the University of Southampton Science Park has been opened, becoming the latest addition to Southampton Science Park’s portfolio of accommodation for science and technology businesses.

The centre was opened by the Rt Hon. the Lord Willetts, Chair of the UK Space Agency Board and former Minister of State for Universities and Science.

This new facility will provide specialist laboratories, workshops, office spaces and collaboration zones, designed to support a range of industrial sectors including eco-hydraulics, electronics, transport research, aerospace, energy, unmanned systems and a number of hydraulic flumes.

Lord Willetts said, “It is a great pleasure to be here today, my first public engagement since being made an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering earlier this month.

''This prestigious new facility which shines a light on the engineering talent that we have here on the south coast and provides a platform from which the sector can build and flourish.

''Judging by the people and companies that I’ve met here today, there’s no doubt that Southampton Science Park’s growing reputation, exemplified by projects like these, is making a meaningful contribution to the sustainable growth and prosperity of our region. I am delighted to be declaring it officially open.”

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The Centre is also home to the Future Towns Innovation Hub, a joint industry-academic venture led by the University of Southampton in partnership with the Enterprise M3 LEP and Research England.

Dr Robin Chave, Chief Executive of Southampton Science Park, said: “In the year that Southampton Science Park celebrates its 40^thanniversary, we are thrilled to officially throw open the doors to our new Engineering Centre.

''I would like to take this opportunity to thank all project partners involved in bringing this exciting and important project to fruition.

''I also extend my gratitude to Lord Willetts and guests who came along today to see first-hand how this bespoke new facility is already nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship within the engineering arena; one that plays a significant role in regional development. I am confident that the businesses and academics based here in this new centre of excellence will thrive.”

By Tom Kilkelly

Tom Kilkelly started working as a freelance journalist for The Business Magazine following his graduation from UCL in 2022.

During his studies Tom became very interested in the works of Irish authors including Samuel Beckett and Flann O'Brien (Brian O'Nolan).

His current role as a freelance business reporter is his first exposure to the world of business journalism. Working at TBM has given Tom the chance to really get to grips with the goings-on in the business hive that is the South East.