The Infinity Prototype Centre (IPC), located at Infinity Park, Derby, has officially opened its doors after receiving a significant £1.5 million investment from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). This new facility is set to enhance Derby's status as a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation, while also generating employment opportunities within the region.
The centre will offer state-of-the-art services to organisations within the nuclear supply chain and the broader advanced manufacturing sector. The site, previously home to the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, has undergone redevelopment through a collaborative effort involving the EMCCA, the University of Derby, Derby City Council, and INFINITY. This project is a key component of the East Midlands Investment Zone.
Designed to foster innovation and collaboration, the IPC features new workspaces and teaching facilities. These will serve as a meeting point for local supply chain companies, researchers, and industry partners to exchange expertise and develop skills. The centre is anticipated to create numerous high-value jobs and further employment opportunities for local residents, acting as a catalyst for the region's clean energy sectors and promoting sustainable growth.
“"The opening of the Infinity Prototype Centre reflects a shared ambition for the region and confidence in what we can achieve by working together."
Professor Kathryn Mitchell, CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby, highlighted the centre's role in putting the university's commitment to industry engagement into practice. She expressed gratitude to EMCCA for its investment and to Derby City Council and INFINITY for their collaboration, looking forward to building on these partnerships for lasting regional value. The IPC builds on the University of Derby's existing presence at Infinity Park, including its Nuclear Skills Academy (NSA).
“"By investing in Derby’s future, we’re backing the people and businesses who make our region such a strong centre for manufacturing and engineering."
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, emphasised that the investment supports local people and businesses, aiming to create rewarding careers within the region. She stated that the investment in the IPC will help businesses develop new ideas, provide access to necessary skills, and support vital future industries like nuclear and clean energy. She also noted that Derby has much to offer and this project exemplifies collaborative efforts to attract investment and create long-term community benefits.
“"The IPC is a great example of partnership working in action. The City Council is collaborating with its partners including The University of Derby and Infinity Tech to deliver this project, which will offer a huge boost to our local economy and reaffirm Derby’s place as a national leader for innovation, manufacturing and world-class research and development."
Cllr Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, described the IPC as a prime example of partnership working. She highlighted the collaboration with the University of Derby and Infinity Tech, anticipating a significant boost to the local economy and reinforcing Derby's national standing in innovation, manufacturing, and R&D. The EMCCA investment is expected to revitalise the building and support the city's ambitions for sustainable growth and technological leadership.
“"The opening of the Infinity Prototype Centre is an important early step in developing the future technologies, manufacturing capability and skills required by UK industry."
Professor Gary Jones, CEO of INFINITY, views the IPC opening as a crucial step in developing future technologies, manufacturing capabilities, and skills for UK industry. He stated that it provides INFINITY with a base to collaborate with industry primes and their supply chains, strengthening the UK's industrial capacity and fostering inclusive growth in Derby and the East Midlands. He acknowledged the central role of EMCCA and the University of Derby in making the building possible.
“"We welcome the opening of the IPC building as an important step in developing a nationally significant manufacturing capability at Infinity Park."
Dr Graham Hoare, CEO at MTC, welcomed the IPC building as a significant step towards developing nationally important manufacturing capabilities at Infinity Park. He noted that it offers a platform to build the UK's capacity for developing, validating, and manufacturing large, complex components, while cultivating the specialist skills and resilient supply chains needed for major national programmes. He also highlighted Infinity Park's potential to integrate industry, technology, skills, and suppliers to drive sustained UK capability and growth.
Further information about research and innovation can be found on the University of Derby website.
