A GLOBAL centre of excellence aiming to transform large-scale manufacturing through innovation and skills development has been launched in Rosyth.

Based at Babcock International, the Arrol Gibb Innovation Campus (AGIC) will serve a range of small- to medium-sized enterprises in the marine, nuclear and energy-transition sectors, offering access to the latest industrial techniques and technology, industrial and office space, innovation advice and skills development.

AGIC is a collaboration between Babcock International, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Strathclyde, Fife College, Fife Council and Scottish Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland.

The partners are developing leading expertise in five core capabilities on one site: large-scale advanced manufacturing, composites, robotics, nuclear manufacturing and digital shipbuilding.

All five are supported by cross-campus skills development and an 'Innovation Incubator' for start-up businesses and existing businesses looking to engage in innovative product and process improvements.

The first facility to open for business will be FASTBLADE, the world’s first test facility that uses regenerative hydraulic technology to offer high-quality, low-cost fatigue testing of lightweight composite structures for research and product development.

FASTBLADE, which tests composite blades for tidal energy turbines, will welcome its first customers later this month.

Ivan McKee MSP, Scottish Government Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise, said: “I welcome the launch of the Arrol Gibb Innovation Campus, which will support employment and skills, benefit the economy, drive innovation and reinforce Scotland’s position as a global leader in large-scale advanced manufacturing.

“Its unique combination of capabilities support Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation.”

Sean Donaldson, managing director for Babcock’s Rosyth facility, added: “The campus will create something unique in Scotland that will drive and energise advanced manufacturing.

“With an open cooperative approach, the campus will enable users to conceive, test, implement and learn – creating knowledge, IP and digital skills for economic growth.

"Supporting flexible, large-scale, advanced manufacturing for energy, shipbuilding and infrastructure sectors, the campus will provide a rewarding future for generations to come.”