£8m for nuclear research lab

THE UNIVERSITY of Manchester’s nuclear research laboratories are in line for a £8m upgrade.

Its Dalton Nuclear Institute, which the university describes as one of the world’s leading centres of nuclear research and education, will get the cash as part of a drive to establish the North as a ‘low carbon economic area'(LCEA).

Under the LCEA banner the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) will seek to bring together knowledge, skills and investment within the nuclear sector.

The Dalton institute will work with Sheffield University on the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) in South Yorkshire. The institute will provide its research facilities to innovate and demonstrate manufacturing technology for nuclear power generation.

The NWDA has also promised support for the Dalton Cumbria Educational Facility for nuclear research, higher learning and continual professional development.

According to the NWDA more than 25,000 skilled professionals are employed in 300 nuclear-related companies across the region, generating a combined annual turnover of around £3bn.

NWDA chairman Robert Hough said: “Today’s announcement demonstrates that England’s Northwest has a real commitment to a low carbon future, especially within the nuclear industry. There is an exceptional business opportunity for the region, including an increase in job opportunities and skills, leading to innovation and economic growth.

“Working alongside our colleagues at Manchester University, Yorkshire Forward, and the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre in Sheffield, the Low Carbon Economic Area agreement for Nuclear will ensure the Northwest can provide regional and national leadership within the sector, engaging directly with businesses to maximise opportunities.”

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