Recent drone photography has showcased the progress on the University of Central Lancashire’s £35 million Engineering Innovation Centre.
The EIC is a key component of the university’s £200 million ‘masterplan’, aimed at producing locally trained graduates in fields like aerospace, mechanical, and energy technologies.
Introduction
Recent drone photography has showcased the progress on the University of Central Lancashire’s £35 million Engineering Innovation Centre.
The EIC is a key component of the university’s £200 million ‘masterplan’, aimed at producing locally trained graduates in fields like aerospace, mechanical, and energy technologies.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Staff, students, and regional companies will benefit from top-tier equipment, including flight simulators, Formula One cars, and specialised electronic labs.
Designed by internationally renowned architects SimpsonHaugh, the Manchester-based BAM Construction is set to complete the building this spring.
Community Impact
The EIC will not only serve as an advanced teaching and research facility but will also be an asset to Preston and Lancashire.
Michael Ahern, UCLan’s COO, stated, ‘These latest images clearly show the rapid progress being made to complete this much-anticipated facility.’
Ahern further added, ‘It will be fantastic for Preston to be home to such a modern, innovative building which will be a real hive of activity.’
Inspiration for Future Engineers
Simon Atkinson, the project manager at BAM, noted the EIC’s importance in inspiring and supporting new engineers.
‘The EIC is going to be an integral part of inspiring and supporting new generations of engineers,’ Atkinson remarked.
He also mentioned that BAM has a long history of training engineers, making this project particularly significant for the company.
Funding and Strategic Importance
Identified as a key project within Lancashire’s Strategic Economic Plan, the EIC has garnered significant funding support.
The project secured £10.5 million through the Lancashire Enterprise Partnerships’ Growth Deal with the Government.
Additional funding includes £5.8 million from the European Regional Development Fund and £5 million from HEFCE’s STEM Capital Fund.
Architectural Excellence and Design
The EIC’s design has been crafted by the acclaimed architects SimpsonHaugh.
This innovative structure will soon be a landmark in Preston, reflecting the city’s commitment to technological advancement.
The rapid construction progress can be seen in new images, highlighting the building’s emerging presence in the landscape.
Conclusion
The EIC represents a significant leap forward for both the University of Central Lancashire and the wider community.
With state-of-the-art facilities and substantial funding, the centre is poised to become a hub of innovation and learning for future engineers.
The EIC represents a significant leap forward for both the University of Central Lancashire and the wider community.
With state-of-the-art facilities and substantial funding, the centre is poised to become a hub of innovation and learning for future engineers.
