The West of England region has set out its industrial strategy, developing a network of test centres and a global innovation centre.  

 The Local Industrial Strategy is intended to fit with the national strategy. “From the days of Brunel, through to the latest developments in robotics and virtual reality, the West of England has been at the cutting edge of technology,” said Tim Bowles, West of England Mayor. “Across our towns and cities, there is an independence of spirit and pride in the diversity, creativity and ingenuity of communities. Our Local Industrial Strategy sets out how we will work together to build on those strengths.”

“As the world changes around us, we need this plan to make sure we stay ahead of the curve, creating a stronger economy and a better place to live and work for all,” he said.

The plan includes a Global Centre of Innovation Excellence to focus the region’s innovative strengths on globally and nationally significant challenges, while a new West of England Network of Living Labs will develop and test new products and services, preparing them for market.

“Our region is a place where ideas flourish and businesses grow, where creative, digital and high tech meet traditional industry,” said Professor Steve West, Chairman of the Local Enterprise Partnership.

“The Local Industrial Strategy is important to everybody. It’s about the way we live, the way we work, the environment we live in, the way we socialise, and how those things come together to create an environment that allows people to prosper.”

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