Construction begins of the new Electronics and Photonics Innovation Centre (EPIC) in Torbay.
EPIC will build on the strengths of the hi tech sector in Torbay and provide a centre of excellence for photonics and electronics businesses across the South West.
The centre is being developed and operated by TDA, on behalf of Torbay Council. The first stage of construction, which is being delivered by Interserve, represents a key milestone for the project.
Torbay’s elected Mayor and Executive Lead for Finance and Regeneration, Gordon Oliver, said: “It is great to see construction start on site for this high quality development. EPIC will be a centre of excellence in supporting technological innovation and I am delighted that the Council has been able to bring this centre forward. The facility will promote collaborative activity between businesses and research institutions, while accommodating and supporting start up and spin-off companies and foreign direct investment relevant to the microelectronics and photonics sector. I am grateful to the Hi Tech businesses locally for their insight and support for this project and warmly welcome the support of our funding partners.
The £8m project comprises a purpose-built hi tech innovation centre, along with car parking, landscaping and accompanying estate road.
EPIC is partly funded by £3m from the Heart of the South West LEP’s Growth Deal funding.