Works begin at Ayrshire’s new manufacturing innovation centre
The development of Ayrshire’s new Digital Process Manufacturing Centre (DPMC), part of the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), hit a major milestone this week with its half a million-pound refurbishment kicking off.
Last month Paisley headquartered Clark Contracts was awarded the refurbishment contract for the centre, which is a partnership between the University of Strathclyde as the operator of NMIS, North Ayrshire Council and CPI.
Located at the Booth Welsh manufacturing space at i3 in Irvine, the DPMC aims to accelerate the adoption of digital technology for process industry manufacturers to help cut energy costs and achieve net zero by becoming more aware, predictive, and productive.
Opening next year, the DPMC will also act as a beacon for ambitious global businesses as the region undergoes transformation as part of the Ayrshire Growth Deal.
Speaking about the latest developments, Stuart Laidlaw, Head of Operations at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland, said:
Now is a difficult time for manufacturers as they struggle with rising energy costs and supply chain shortages. As one of the country’s fastest-growing research and development organisations, we’re committed to helping industry embrace technology and innovation to overcome these challenges and enhance their performance to compete globally.
“The Digital Process Manufacturing Centre will bring significant benefits to UK process manufacturing businesses and the local community by attracting inward investment to Ayrshire through our world-leading research and development (R&D) expertise, training opportunities, cutting-edge digital demonstrators and supportive community of specialist technology centres, members and partners.
The new centre was announced in June and marked the first collaboration between NMIS and CPI, which are both part of the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult. Its refurbishment includes a lecture theatre and a large collaboration and networking space. It will be digitally connected to the new NMIS HQ in Renfrewshire’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS), also opening next year, which will include a Digital Factory, Manufacturing Skills Academy and open-access Collaboration Hub.
Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Economy and Climate Change, said:
This is really positive news and another exciting step forward in the development of the Digital Processing Manufacturing Centre.
It will be a fantastic asset and we look forward to working closely NMIS and CPI to bring technical expertise and academic research and innovation right into the heart of North Ayrshire. It will help businesses and our workforce understand new digital ways of working and ensure they have the skills and expertise to develop and grow even further.
Frank Millar, CEO at CPI, said:
Digitisation is essential for creating a sustainable and productive future for process industry manufacturers. Our partnership with NMIS reflects the broader strategy of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult to enable industrial transformations, so it is great to hear that the Digital Process Manufacturing Centre is one step closer to completion in North Ayrshire.
We're looking forward to working with our partners through the new Centre to boost the adoption of advanced technologies and deliver manufacturing solutions that build a better future for both business and local people.”
Gerry Cummins, Director at Clark Contracts, added,
Having worked with the University of Strathclyde for over 20 years, it is great to be continuing our relationship to deliver this innovative technology centre. We are also looking forward to working with North Ayrshire Council again to support the manufacturing sector across the country.
Gillian Docherty, Chief Commercial Officer at the University of Strathclyde, said:
This is an exciting step on the journey towards the creation of a facility that will further bolster Scotland’s manufacturing innovation ecosystem and the development of industry 4.0 – where our internationally leading research and digitisation capabilities will provide a major boost to productivity and competitive advantage.
Martin Welsh, Managing Director at Booth Welsh, said:
The DPMC, located at our facility in Ayrshire, aligns with our purpose of 'collaborating to engineer a better future'. Working closely with all partners, we look forward to bringing the vision for this centre to life and allowing businesses from both within Ayrshire and nationally, practical, hands-on access to the latest technology to understand how digitalisation can help accelerate both their business and sustainability goals; an opportunity much needed in today's fast paced and disruptive world.
Latest news from across the NMIS Group
-
NMIS strengthens leadership team with two new appointments
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 -
3D printing helps young entrepreneur’s therapy device blossom
Thursday, September 5, 2024 -
AFRC achieves world-class accreditation for mechanical testing
Monday, August 5, 2024 -
Factory simulation helps Scottish confectioner hit the sweet spot
Monday, July 22, 2024 -
NMIS hires industry heavyweight as electrification lead
Monday, July 1, 2024 -
NMIS bolsters board with two industry powerhouses
Monday, June 17, 2024 -
£14 million funding to support Glasgow manufacturers to become greener and more productive
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 -
Hybrid approach to titanium manufacturing boosts UK aerospace opportunity
Thursday, April 18, 2024 -
Pioneering forging research hub puts Scotland at the forefront of advanced engineering
Thursday, March 21, 2024 -
Apprenticeship matchmaking tool aims to close Scotland’s manufacturing skills gap
Thursday, March 7, 2024 -
Scottish SMEs receive £1M support to explore additive manufacturing
Wednesday, February 7, 2024 -
Decking company elevated to new heights with ‘floating’ gardens
Tuesday, December 19, 2023 -
AFRC and ITP Aero win EPSRC Prosperity Partnership Award
Wednesday, November 29, 2023 -
Groundbreaking project to bring high-value 3D printing to UK manufacturing
Wednesday, August 9, 2023 -
Cutting-edge demos boost small business growth in the UK’s machining sector
Thursday, July 27, 2023 -
National Manufacturing Institute Scotland to help deliver Scotland’s first energy incubator and scale-up hub
Wednesday, July 12, 2023 -
Ground-breaking NMIS facility paving the way for the future of manufacturing in Scotland
Wednesday, June 21, 2023 -
Net-zero future for UK wind industry accelerating with growth of new industry body
Tuesday, June 13, 2023 -
Striking a hammer blow for metals recycling
Wednesday, May 3, 2023 -
Scotland’s manufacturing R&D anchor bolsters leadership team with new talent
Monday, March 6, 2023 -
The future’s looking green for Scotland’s manufacturers as the Lightweight Manufacturing Centre commissions new equipment
Thursday, February 16, 2023 -
Major milestone achieved at Scotland’s new flagship manufacturing R&D facility
Friday, February 10, 2023 -
Become a sustainability champion for free with the Manufacturing Skills Academy
Monday, December 19, 2022 -
New supply chain R&D project aims to revolutionise zero-emissions shipbuilding and create Scottish jobs
Thursday, December 1, 2022 -
Works begin at Ayrshire’s new manufacturing innovation centre
Thursday, November 24, 2022 -
Scotland’s innovation magnet attracts global tech firms as it opens its membership programme
Thursday, October 13, 2022 -
Five minutes with…Jennifer MacDonald
Tuesday, October 11, 2022 -
Five minutes with… Daniele Marini
Tuesday, October 11, 2022 -
Five minutes with… Anastasia Khatunsteva
Thursday, October 6, 2022 -
Research ties between Scotland and Australia could advance shipbuilding on the Clyde
Friday, September 23, 2022 -
National Manufacturing Institute Scotland appoints former UKRI Challenge Director as Chief Executive Officer
Monday, September 5, 2022 -
New course with key industry players to boost photonics skills
Thursday, August 18, 2022 -
Forging ahead
Wednesday, August 17, 2022 -
Orkney manufacturers given first access to national net-zero initiative
Tuesday, July 5, 2022 -
NMIS celebrating Scottish manufacturing with the FM’s award for manufacturing leadership
Thursday, June 16, 2022 -
Strathclyde, SSE Renewables & Renewable Parts sign joint MoU to develop a sustainable wind sector
Wednesday, June 15, 2022 -
A digital future for the process industries with new Ayrshire technology centre
Thursday, June 9, 2022 -
Key equipment arrives at Boeing R&D facility in Scotland
Wednesday, June 1, 2022 -
Pioneering cross border collaboration provides crucial support to UK forging and forming community
Wednesday, June 1, 2022 -
Wind turbine blade recycling project powers up at the Lightweight Manufacturing Centre
Friday, May 20, 2022 -
NMIS prepares for MACH debut
Thursday, March 31, 2022 -
Two new AFRC Tier Two Members accelerating traditional manufacturing methods into the 21st century
Tuesday, March 8, 2022 -
NMIS HQ update: construction reaches final stages
Friday, March 4, 2022 -
Rotary forge heading to 'steel city' from Renfrewshire
Monday, February 28, 2022 -
New project set to help manufacturers cut costs and land net-zero targets
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 -
Entries now open for showpiece celebration of Scottish innovation
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 -
University of Strathclyde students aim for a podium finish in NMIS motorcycle racing project
Tuesday, March 8, 2022 -
Fifty fully paid work placements made available for STEM graduates in Scotland
Monday, January 31, 2022 -
The future of manufacturing comes to the AFRC with three new Members and one renewal
Wednesday, January 19, 2022 -
The skill requirements for a net zero future: The Manufacturer in conversation
Thursday, January 13, 2022 -
Manufacturing Skills Academy launches pandemic recovery package to help upskill Scots and boost innovation
Wednesday, December 22, 2021 -
Forging a new future for green energy
Tuesday, December 7, 2021 -
From 3D printer to international catwalk
Wednesday, December 8, 2021 -
NMIS operator, Strathclyde, wins Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education in Advanced Manufacturing
Friday, November 26, 2021 -
£2million pilot led by Scottish researchers to develop UK’s first wind turbine blade recycling project gets go-ahead
Thursday, November 18, 2021 -
£1.2m project extends life of parts in quest to help manufacturers tap into net zero economy
Thursday, November 18, 2021 -
Manufacturing a Net-Zero Future: in-person conference open for registration
Wednesday, October 20, 2021 -
NMIS and Boeing officially open new R&D facility in Renfrewshire
Tuesday, October 5, 2021 -
Manufacturing a net-zero future: a conversation with NMIS Chief Operating Officer Sarah Jardine
Tuesday, September 28, 2021 -
Patients recovering from strokes, dystonia and sports injuries could reduce rehabilitation time by 30% with virtual reality gaming platform
Thursday, September 23, 2021 -
National Manufacturing Institute Scotland HQ reaches major construction milestone
-
Free online events with NMIS and Product Design Scotland: navigating the product design process
Wednesday, September 1, 2021 -
NMIS HQ construction update: digital factory is taking shape
Friday, March 26, 2021 -
New partnership set to future proof process manufacturing in Scotland
Monday, August 30, 2021 -
Smart Factory Innovation Hub testbed at NMIS helping Scottish businesses to harness digital technologies
Thursday, May 6, 2021 -
Recycling aeroplanes and turning them into drinks cans: the role of composites in the journey towards net-zero
Thursday, August 26, 2021 -
World renowned Scottish forging and forming research centre opening an office in ‘steel city’
Thursday, August 12, 2021 -
Tooling specialist chisels out agreement for another three years
Tuesday, August 10, 2021 -
AFRC and MAPAL drive tooling manufacture into the future
Wednesday, May 12, 2021 -
Augmented reality project to help train surgeons around the world on ‘hyper-real’ models of organs
Wednesday, July 21, 2021 -
Every day’s a school day: skills development and its vital role in manufacturing, industry 4.0, and the growth of the Scottish economy
Tuesday, June 15, 2021 -
New capability network will help businesses across Scotland access support and unlock innovation
Thursday, June 10, 2021 -
NMIS HQ construction update: from steel to timber and a heather coloured roof
Monday, May 31, 2021 -
Boeing getting ready for lift off from Westway, Renfrew with NMIS
Wednesday, May 19, 2021 -
New local collaboration gives young people in care a pathway into manufacturing roles
Wednesday, May 12, 2021 -
NMIS launches new scheme to support STEM graduates into employment amid pandemic
Friday, March 19, 2021 -
Three diverse new Tier Two Members join the AFRC
Thursday, March 18, 2021 -
Circular economy project set to ensure clean energy solutions don’t increase landfill waste
-
AFRC welcomes Booth Welsh with iTech
-
AFRC welcomes global technology giant Hewlett Packard Enterprise as Tier Two Member
Wednesday, January 20, 2021 -
Construction underway on flagship National Manufacturing Institute Scotland facility
Tuesday, December 15, 2020 -
NMIS to help transport operators navigate Covid-19 safety measures
Wednesday, December 9, 2020 -
Making Scotland’s future - recovery plan for the manufacturing sector
Friday, December 4, 2020 -
Global companies strengthen their commitment to AFRC to deliver better customer solutions
Tuesday, November 24, 2020 -
Strathclyde and partners to deliver satellite constellation project
Thursday, November 19, 2020 -
Sustainability top of the agenda for NMIS as it joins new additive manufacturing body
Tuesday, October 27, 2020 -
NMIS offers free training resources and a new online CPD course to help individuals upskill from home
Thursday, October 22, 2020 -
High-tech software company Bellrock Technology Ltd joins AFRC as latest Tier Two Member
Monday, October 12, 2020 -
AFRC announces new partnership with Theorem Solutions
Thursday, October 8, 2020 -
Scottish project ‘reinvents the wheel’ with flat-pack hydro-energy solutions for Africa
Monday, October 5, 2020 -
New tool will help Covid response technologies gain necessary approvals
Wednesday, September 23, 2020 -
AFRC welcomes Kigtek as latest Tier 2 member
Friday, September 18, 2020 -
NMIS Boeing programme takes off from Westway, Renfrew
Monday, September 14, 2020 -
AFRC Welcomes ROCOL as new Tier Two Member
Thursday, October 8, 2020 -
University of Strathclyde at the forefront of projects helping small and medium sized manufacturing firms in Scotland
Wednesday, July 29, 2020 -
NMIS donates 10,000 face visors to help charities move forward from lockdown
Wednesday, July 22, 2020 -
Digital cask filling solution could save Scottish whisky industry millions
Tuesday, July 14, 2020 -
Transvalor joins the AFRC as the first Tier One Partner in support of new FutureForge facility
Tuesday, July 7, 2020 -
Made in Scotland: the new wind turbine blade set to make green energy even greener
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 -
Contract awarded for construction of flagship National Manufacturing Institute Scotland facility
Friday, May 29, 2020 -
National Manufacturing Institute Scotland leadership team bolstered with CEO appointment
Tuesday, May 26, 2020 -
Planning permission granted for construction of National Manufacturing Institute Scotland facility
Monday, April 6, 2020 -
Boeing touches down in Scotland with new strategic alliance
Monday, April 6, 2020 -
NMIS Insights: National Manufacturing Institute Scotland launches its first event series
-
Planning permission submitted for National Manufacturing Institute Scotland
-
Why the oil and gas sector needs to embrace Additive Manufacturing
-
AFRC Tier Two Membership is measuring up for leading precision engineering firm