Strathclyde University gets green light for new Technology and Innovation Centre

Feb 22 2012 By Joe McGuire

Strathclyde University Technology and Innovation Centre Image 1

A NEW multi-million technology campus has been given the green light by Glasgow City Council.

Strathclyde University have received planning consent for a Technology and Innovation Centre to be built, with buildings both on George Street and in the Merchant City.

More than £89m will be spent on the landmark development, which aims to bring together academics and partners from industry and business from across the globe.

The centre will house more than 1200 researchers from the University and its partners in both the public and private sectors working to drive economic regeneration.

Professor Jim McDonald, Principal of the University of Strathclyde, said: “Today’s news marks an important milestone in a development which will reinforce our position as a leading international technological university, attract major inward investment to the city, create jobs and help businesses compete on the world stage.

“The University is dedicated to sharing knowledge and finding solutions to challenges that matter in areas of economic and societal importance – including health, energy, manufacturing and the economy.
“We are also committed to helping companies compete globally.

“Our approach is already revolutionising the way researchers in academia and industry collaborate and innovate together.”

Companies that have partnered with Strathclyde for the Centre include ScottishPower, engineering giants the Weir Group and Rolls-Royce.

At 25,000 square metres, the building will have the equivalent floor space of almost 100 tennis courts.

The expected 1200 researchers will work towards tackling issues including climate change, disease and the need for fresh drinking water across the globe.

Colin Hood, Chair of Technology and Innovation Centre’s Industry Advisory Board, said: “This news is a welcome boost for not only the University of Strathclyde and the city of Glasgow, but for Scotland as a whole.

“It will bring with it a fresh way of thinking by opening new avenues of research and collaboration, creating significant benefits for the economy and the city.

“The project is gathering pace and will without doubt strengthen Scotland’s reputation for its contribution to innovation and high quality research.”

In addition a 5000 sq m Industry Engagement Building, which will be located adjacent to the University’s TIC and will accommodate around 500 occupants, has also secured planning permission.

The contract to construct the building on George Street has now gone out to tender, with advance work to prepare the Merchant City site expected to begin early next month.

Currently it is estimated the Centre will open early 2014.