I-Construct, a £2.3 million centre of excellence for construction innovation, has opened for business.
Building work has finished, only 15 months after it began, on the innovation hub which is based off Springwood Drive in Braintree.
The two-storey building – consisting of a technology suite, exhibition space, conference facilities and informal meeting areas – is home to a team offering one-to-one mentoring, grant schemes and advice to small and medium sized firms connected to the construction industry.
It will be a place where innovative ideas – such as robotics, off-site construction, and modelling software – are shared and celebrated. It is hoped that the sharing of ideas and opportunities will increase innovation and productivity in the construction sector.
The state-of-the-art building has been built to extremely high environmental standards using innovative construction techniques and modern materials. The design* means that the building will be highly energy efficient when in use.
The business support programme at the hub will be run by the Haven Gateway Partnership and will serve businesses across Essex, Kent and East Sussex.
The programme will support over 350 businesses, launch 150 new products and services, and create up to 130 jobs.
An official ceremony to mark the opening will be held this year.
For businesses interested in the support available click here
