New jobs in digital manufacturing are set for Irvine with the town’s new plant at i3 set to open later this year.

The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) Group, operated by the University of Strathclyde, has announced that it will open a new technology centre in Ayrshire in partnership with North Ayrshire Council and deep tech innovation organisation, CPI.

The new Digital Process Manufacturing Centre will offer training opportunities, cutting-edge digital demonstrators and access to expert support on research and development (R&D).

The news follows last year’s announcement that the University of Strathclyde was set to work in partnership with North Ayrshire Council and CPI committing to future proofing the process industries through support for digitalisation and data-driven manufacturing.

Following the successful delivery of a series of specialist courses through the NMIS Manufacturing Skills Academy, the partners are now ramping up support through the new centre, which will be housed in an existing manufacturing facility after it undergoes a half million-pound refurbishment. The centre is set to open its doors later this year.

Including space for industrial engagement and a digital demonstration laboratory, the DPMC will provide hands on experience of industry 4.0 technologies across the pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, food and drink, chemicals, water, and fast-moving commercial goods industries, initially supported by a team of six NMIS engineers and researchers.

Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Economy & Climate Change, North Ayrshire Council, said: “We are delighted that the new Digital Process Manufacturing Centre will be situated within the i3 area of Irvine.

“North Ayrshire has a strong industrial heritage in manufacturing and this Centre will help to transform and modernise our business base.”