Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray MP, has applauded the University of Stirling’s new National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub (NATIH) for its potential to revolutionize the aquaculture sector. The state-of-the-art facility is set to enhance sustainability, boost productivity, and create jobs within Scotland’s burgeoning blue economy.
A Vision for Sustainable Aquaculture
In a significant development for the UK’s aquaculture industry, the University of Stirling has officially launched its National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub (NATIH). This cutting-edge facility, supported by a £17 million UK Government investment and a £1 million grant from the Wolfson Foundation, promises to be a game-changer for the aquaculture sector.
The NATIH project is an integral part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, which aims to foster innovation and growth in the region. The Hub will serve as a beacon of research excellence, driving both productivity and sustainability within the industry. As the UK pushes towards its goal of being a global leader in aquaculture, this development is positioned as a crucial step forward.
NATIH is closely tied to the University’s Institute of Aquaculture (IoA), which already holds a prominent place as one of the world’s leading centers for aquaculture research. With its large-scale marine facilities in Kintyre and freshwater facilities in Buckieburn, IoA has long been at the forefront of tackling global challenges related to food security and sustainability.
£17 Million Investment Sparks Local Growth
During a recent steel signing ceremony, a pivotal milestone in the Hub’s construction, Murray expressed his strong support for the project. “This pioneering facility will not only drive innovation and sustainability but will also create jobs in the local economy,” he said. The £17 million investment from the UK Government, which forms part of a broader £45 million commitment to the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, is a key component of this vision.
In addition to the economic benefits, the Hub’s emphasis on research and development will ensure that aquaculture practices in the UK remain at the forefront of sustainable food production. As the demand for aquatic food grows globally, the ability to produce it efficiently and with minimal environmental impact has never been more important.
Professor Sir Gerry McCormac, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Stirling, highlighted that the new facility will make the UK a leader in aquaculture innovation. “The Hub will create a community dedicated to sustainable aquatic food production, advancing both the economy and the sector,” he said.
Strengthening Scotland’s Blue Economy
The National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub (NATIH) will not only focus on research but also create significant training opportunities and high-value jobs. Professor Simon MacKenzie, Head of the Institute of Aquaculture, emphasized the importance of the Hub in addressing critical global issues such as food security, hunger, and environmental sustainability.
As a part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, the investment in NATIH is expected to spur wider regional growth. With a £90.2 million contribution from both the UK and Scottish Governments, the deal aims to enhance innovation infrastructure and deliver long-term economic benefits for the region.
“We want to position Stirling as the home of sustainable aquaculture in the UK,” said Councillor Gerry McGarvey, Depute Leader of Stirling Council. “This project will enhance the regional economy, provide jobs, and establish strong links with businesses and communities locally and internationally.”
Collaboration with Robertson Construction
The building of the NATIH facility is a joint effort with Robertson Construction, which recently completed the foundations and steel frame of the building. Robertson’s Regional Managing Director, David Cairns, described the project as a “world-class facility” that will bolster the University’s reputation for sustainable research.
The construction process has already contributed to the local economy, creating two new jobs and spending £6.5 million with small and medium enterprises in the region. Additionally, the project has fostered partnerships with nearby schools, offering career development opportunities for the next generation of construction professionals.
| Key Details of the NATIH Project | Data |
|---|---|
| UK Government Investment | £17 million |
| Wolfson Foundation Grant | £1 million |
| Total Project Investment | £45 million |
| Jobs Created During Construction | 2 |
| Local Supply Chain Spend | £6.5 million |
The collaboration between the University of Stirling, Robertson Construction, and regional partners underscores the importance of a unified approach to driving economic growth and innovation in the aquaculture sector.
