University research facility delivers multi-million pound boost to local economy

A new research facility at the University of Stirling has delivered a multi-million pound boost to the local economy in Forth Valley during the build phase.

The National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub (NATIH) will drive the UK’s ambition to be a world leader in sustainable aquaculture practice and contribute to global food security.

The state-of-the-art facility, due to open later this year, is funded by a £17million investment by the UK Government through the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, as well as a £1million Wolfson Foundation grant and investment from the University.

The project has met ambitious targets to deliver local social impact, with £2.64m of the project budget spent with businesses within 40 miles of the University, and £6m with small and medium sized businesses.

Throughout the build, local partnerships have been critical in fostering a range of social impact initiatives which were rolled out by main contractor Robertson Central East, showcasing how modern infrastructure can be a catalyst for real change in communities.

From job creation to work experience and apprenticeships opportunities, NATIH has embedded social impact at its core to drive inclusive, lasting change in communities across Stirling and Clackmannanshire.

Supporting prosperity

Professor Paul A. Townsend, Deputy Principal (Research and Innovation) at the University of Stirling, said: “Aquaculture is one of the world’s fastest growing sectors and the new National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub at the University of Stirling will create the UK’s leading innovation community for sustainable aquatic food production, creating high value, skilled jobs and training opportunities.

“We’re proud that the construction of this exciting new facility has already supported prosperity and created opportunities for people in Stirling, Clackmannanshire and beyond, so that together we can live better, safer, healthier lives.”

Lornshill Academy pupils who took part in the Ideal Candidate programme

Local community benefits from the build include: 

• More than 80 weeks of apprenticeships delivered in partnership with Robertson and the supply chain.
• Work experience placements provided for local young people from a range of backgrounds.
• Ideal Candidate employability programme for Wallace High and Lornshill Academy pupils.
• Site visits with local schools with a special focus on encouraging women into construction. 
• Monthly food bank donations and community clean-up events delivered in partnership with local organisations.

Wallace High School pupils who took part in the Ideal Candidate programme

Community wealth building

David Cairns, Managing Director, Robertson Construction Central East, said: “We have worked as a partner to the University of Stirling for a number of years, delivering high-quality award-winning buildings which further enhance learning and research. As a responsible contractor, our works go beyond the physical buildings and reflect the community wealth building desires of both the University and us.

“The NATIH building will play a pivotal role in reinforcing the University as a world leader in sustainable aquaculture and has already made a significant contribution to the local community through the construction phase.”

The Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal is a £90.2million investment from the UK Government and Scottish Government in innovation and infrastructure that will drive inclusive economic growth throughout the region.

Regional partners, including Clackmannanshire Council, Stirling Council, and the University of Stirling, will invest up to £123.8million, resulting in a Deal worth more than £214million, to be delivered over 10 to 15 years.