The University of Bristol’s National Composites Centre (NCC) took formal possession of the new building at the Bristol and Bath Science Park on 13th July, with its chief executive Peter Chivers receiving a key to mark the occasion. Almost 100 people gathered at the NCC to hear how it had been completed in such a short timescale.
The NCC’s 20 month journey began in November 2009 with the publication of the UK Composites Strategy by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), the selection of Bristol as the location and the University of Bristol as owner and host. The Bristol and Bath Science Park was identified as the specific site for the building in March 2010.
In June 2010 the five founding members of GKN Aerospace, Airbus, AgustaWestland, Rolls-Royce and Vestas signed long-term partnerships with the NCC, with Umeco following a year later in June 2011. Physical work on the site began in August 2010 and construction work continued at breakneck speed until the building was finished in June 2011.
Jane Henderson, CEO of the South West RDA Regional Development Agency explained: “We have played a key role in bringing the industrial partners and University of Bristol together to make their applications, securing £12m from BIS, £4m from the Agency and paving the way for £9m of European Regional Development Agency funds.”
The Centre is already operational and will be able to offer full capability by September. It will be formally opened and launched later in the year.
www.nationalcompositescentre.co.uk
