Innovations Into Success Summer 2016 | Page 42

Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park
Regional Focus

Cluster growth at

Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park

Since it acquired the former British Gas research site in 2003 , Loughborough University has created a fully commercial corporate environment at its Science and Enterprise Park . With ready access to the University ’ s research capability and graduate supply , distinct clusters have emerged in energy , advanced engineering , low carbon technologies and sports technology . It now offers 700,000 sq ft of high quality accommodation for more than 55 organisations and 2,000 people
Case study : England and Wales Cricket Board
An aerial view of Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park

Major expansion plans bring further potential to create new clusters for knowledge-based businesses and associated advanced / high value manufacturing , as Prof Tracy Bhamra , Loughborough ’ s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Enterprise explains : “ A 35 hectare expansion is underway to create a further 1,000,000 sq ft floor space . We already have a very significant science park and the expansion we are talking about would perhaps make LUSEP the biggest science park in the UK .”

This is partly due to LUSEP ’ s forward-looking gateway policy which welcomes knowledge-based organisations – and specialist support organisations – at every stage of development across all sectors , whose activities complement the University ’ s activities .
“ We seek a willingness to engage in ongoing discussions around mutually beneficial joint activities ,” continued Prof Bhamra . “ This approach stimulates the flow of knowledge between LUSEP organisations , as well as strengthening partnerships .”
The advantages of proximity to the University ’ s knowledge base are further enhanced by a comprehensive array of benefits and services to all organisations .
Prof Bhamra said : “ We aim to encourage LUSEP ’ s 2,000-strong workforce to feel part of the University community . So we have developed a unique ‘ campus partner offer ’ that includes free services such as cross campus travel and library borrowing , and preferential rates for the University ’ s extensive sports and conference facilities , executive education ,
The National Cricket Performance Centre at Loughborough University is home to the England and Wales Cricket Board ( ECB ) and its England Performance Programme . Working together , the ECB ’ s coaches and physiotherapists and Loughborough ’ s sports biomechanics and psychologists have gained invaluable insights into fast bowling that have positively impacted on talent selection , coach performance and injury prevention .
The collaboration has also stimulated new research projects to develop cricket apparel , most notably culminating in a landmark announcement of regulations governing the use of helmets across the professional and recreational game . All male and female cricketers playing in professional cricket matches are now required to use helmets which meet the latest British Safety Standard , informed by the Sports Technology Institute ’ s research .
Image © Andy Weekes Photography
languages and arts programmes . Essential business services are also available , including HR and print , in addition to enhanced IT provision , above the standard provision of superfast broadband and telephony .”
Energy innovation Energy is largest cluster of activity at LUSEP , with more than 1,100 people in eight companies accelerating the low carbon economy through collaboration . These include BSI , DNV GL , National Grid , the Energy Technologies Institute and Cenex .
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