Planning approval for world-leading robotics school at The University of Salford
The University’s new Centre of Excellence for Robotics has secured planning approval and will create an enterprise space to work with small and medium sized businesses. Award-winning practice 5plus architects have been appointed to bring this project to life.
The centre will be home to a robotics and manufacturing lab as well as teaching spaces. It will act as a hub for the university’s robotic and automation specialists allowing them to pilot and test the latest digital technology.
Professor Sheila Pankhurst, Dean of the School of Science, Engineering and Environment said: “We are delighted to be working with 5plus architects on our exciting new robotics centre. The University of Salford has an internationally renowned reputation in robotics and autonomous systems, with a 30-year history in research and innovation.
“We are constantly looking at opportunities to partner with industry to provide a world class learning environment for our students, and to seek practical solutions to today’s business challenges, particularly in the development of affordable automation systems.
“Robotics and autonomous systems have the power to be transformational in so many areas, ranging from healthcare to food production. As the fourth industrial revolution, known as Industry 4.0, evolves, the new University of Salford robotics centre will position us at the forefront of new technologies and play a central role in our innovation district.”
The scheme forms part of the wider £800 million Salford masterplan, which includes the transformation of 99 hectares of central Salford real estate spanning the University’s estate, Peel Park and the Meadows, several city cultural assets, and local residential neighbourhoods.
Tony Skipper, Director at 5plus, said: “We’re very pleased to see this landmark scheme gain planning approval which involved some incredibly hard work from the 5plus team.
“We have absolute faith in Salford’s potential as a leading global city; it has a long history as a centre of creativity, culture and science, and it will be exciting to help continue its journey – this time around as a major hub for tech, robotics, and engineering.
“We’re looking forward to bringing the project to life in partnership with Salford University and with the support of Salford City Council.”
The plans for the robotics centre will sit within the university’s new high-tech innovation district.
For all press office enquiries please contact Jessica Millington via email at j.k.millington@salford.ac.uk or phone 0161 295 2238.
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