Staffs is hi-tech hub, says report

STAFFORDSHIRE has become a centre for hi-tech manufacturing jobs, a county committee report has stated.

Jobs in the sector increased by 45% in the county between 2007 and 2010. The county saw 1,100 jobs created, compared to a reduction both regionally and nationally.

Ben Adams, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for economic growth and enterprise, said: “It is very encouraging to see that Staffordshire has been reversing a national and regional trend by seeing an increase in the number of hi-tech manufacturing jobs created.

“This is where we want to see job growth and the figures support the county’s position as a national enterprise leader.

 “While job numbers are measured up to 2010, we would expect to have seen even more success over the last two years due to the numerous positive announcements from companies located here or choosing to locate here.

“We are seeing continued success and growth at JCB, which was recently awarded a Queen’s Award for business along with another hi-tech company Rapiscan, a manufacturer of security scanning equipment.

“Alstom in Stafford goes from strength to strength and is developing a world-class research facility following its successful RGF application.

“And last year the county council made the decision to invest £4.3m at Keele University Science and Business Park; a prime location for hi-tech industries.”