Contributors are wanted to study the demand for a UK-based large composites structures center as part of a study for the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS). The National Composites Centre (NCC), in conjunction with the University of Southampton, Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and partners, is investigating the need for a center to research and develop the use of advanced materials in the manufacture of large structures needed by sectors such as marine, oil and gas, and construction. The study follows a Solent Maritime Forum report, which cited a national need for a “large structures composites centre.”
The plan to foster growth in the marine and maritime industry in the Solent Region was commissioned by Michael Fallon MP following the decision by BAE Systems to end shipbuilding operations in Portsmouth. “Transforming Solent” was produced by Rear Admiral Rob Stevens CB and, among a number of recommendations, it suggested that the feasibility of establishing a national Large Structures Composite Centre in that region be investigated in partnership with local universities and regulators. The draft Solent LEP Growth Plan published in January 2014 highlighted as one of its key proposals the creation of such a center in the Solent Region aimed largely at the marine and renewables sectors.