UK’s first manufacturing Innovation District gains momentum

THE FIRST Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District in the UK is being pushed forward in the Sheffield City Region after it was backed by the Centre for Cities think-tank.

Businesses in Rotherham and Sheffield have an “ambitious vision” for the development which will be Europe’s largest research-led advanced manufacturing cluster.

The Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre and the AMP in Rotherham will be connected with businesses in the Don Valley and Sheffield city centre under the plans.

The Innovation District will combine research institutions, business incubators, but its not like your standard science park. The districts are intended to cluster in areas which are liveable, easily accessible by bike and foot as well as road and have an “urban” setting.

Councillor Leigh Bramall, deputy leader of Sheffield City Council and cabinet member for business, skills and development, said: “The Centre for Cities report highlights Sheffield City Region’s particular excellence in advanced manufacturing.

“This is of not just national, but international significance and by building upon this and creating an Innovation District around the AMP, we can boost the city as a whole.

“But the Sheffield International Economic Commission focuses on not just advanced manufacturing, but on those other things that make Sheffield unique, such as the outdoor economy. We are in a position to move forward with creativity and confidence.

“Securing the input of the best international experts offers a real opportunity to sell the city and City Region and help us punch our weight internationally.”

Acting chief executive of Centre for Cities, Andrew Carter, said: “The Sheffield City Region has a strong heritage in the steel industry which has since evolved into a hub of advanced manufacturing activity and innovation.

“By focusing on growing this highly skilled, productive industry using the Innovation District model, the city region can both support existing firms to grow, and encourage new ones to locate there, helping to boost the local economy and create jobs.”

Sheffield City Council is also pushing forward details of the Sheffield International Economic Commission, which aims to boost economic growth and enable Sheffield to increasingly realise its role in the global marketplace. 

 

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