CTuk's Advanced Composite Technology Centre gains grant support
Above: A computer-generated render of the new centre on the River Colne in Essex .
The £1 million RGF grant will catalyse private investment of around £7.3 million for the construction of an Advanced Composite Technology Centre, incorporating a training facility, on the River Colne in East Colchester. It is expected that the project will create over 120 new jobs over the next few years, including the provision of training skills for 15 new apprentices.
The centre will enable CTruk to build larger workboats designed to meet the complex demands of wind farms further offshore, educate the next generation of modern boat-builders and facilitate diversification into other commercial marine sectors (the company recently announced a hydrographic survey vessel order from the Port of London Authority). CTruk also plans to use its composite expertise for non-marine manufacturing at the centre in the longer term future.
This project is a prime example of the Offshore Wind Industrial Strategy in action, with industry and Government working together to build a competitive and innovative UK supply chain. CTruk’s bid received strong local, regional and political support from Sir Bob Russell MP, Bernard Jenkin MP, Colchester Borough Council, Tendring District Council, University of Essex, Colchester Institute, South East Local Enterprise Partnership, Haven Gateway partnership, Essex Chambers of Commerce and East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) as well as major client CWind Ltd.
CTruk chairman Pete McIntosh commented, “We are delighted that our project has been selected and wholeheartedly thank all of those who supported the bid. It is our intention to continue driving UK innovation in marine vessel design and to remain competitive in a changing market. The Advanced Composite Technology Centre will enable us to diversify and grow sustainably, meeting our aspiration to be more than boat builders.”
Work is planned start on the new building in the spring.
