Abertay University has officially launched a £9 million ($11.3 million) CoSTAR Realtime Lab in Dundee, aiming to supercharge Scotland’s gaming, film, and performance industries. This major investment is part of a broader push to position the country as a leader in creative technology and innovation.
A Huge Leap for Scotland’s Creative Sector
The CoSTAR Realtime Lab is more than just a research facility; it’s a game-changer for Scotland’s entertainment industries. The project is backed by a £75.6 million ($95.2 million) UKRI Infrastructure Fund grant, making it the largest investment in creative industries research and development (R&D) to date.
Abertay University leads the initiative alongside partners like the University of Edinburgh, CodeBase, Interface, and Chroma Developments. The lab is set up at Chroma Developments’ Water’s Edge in Dundee, a city already known for its contributions to gaming and digital arts.
A second studio, managed by the University of Edinburgh, is scheduled to open at First Stage Studios in March 2025. This expansion aims to solidify Scotland’s reputation as a global hub for technological advancements in entertainment.
What This Means for UK Tech Companies
The lab isn’t just for researchers—it offers real-world opportunities for UK tech companies. One of its standout features is the £3.6 million ($4.5 million) Pilots and Prototypes Programme (PPP), designed to help businesses test new ideas with cutting-edge technology and research support.
Professor Gregor White, director of the CoSTAR Realtime Lab, emphasized the lab’s potential impact:
- “With the technologies that power our screen-based experiences in film, games, and performance coming together, companies can now explore new markets and redefine industry standards.”
He highlighted that the facility will foster collaboration between academics, industry experts, and entrepreneurs, creating a space where innovation can thrive.
A Vote of Confidence from the UK Government
The UK government sees this project as a key part of its strategy for economic growth. Scottish Secretary Ian Murray described the lab as an “exciting” venture that could open up new avenues for Scotland’s entertainment industry.
- “The UK Government’s investment in forward-thinking initiatives like this is central to our Plan for Change, creating jobs and opportunities that boost living standards across the country,” said Murray.
He also pointed out that Dundee, already home to global gaming success stories, will further solidify its place as a creative powerhouse. The CoSTAR Realtime Lab is expected to attract international talent and investments, reinforcing Scotland’s position on the global entertainment stage.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
Scotland’s creative industry is already on an upward trajectory, but this new lab could push it to the next level. With advanced research facilities, funding for new ideas, and partnerships with leading institutions, the future looks promising.
The CoSTAR Network is expected to unlock new possibilities in gaming, film production, and immersive technology, allowing Scottish companies to compete globally. With a mix of government backing and private sector enthusiasm, the entertainment landscape in Scotland is set for a major transformation.
