The first Maritime Innovation Hub in the UK, a part of the government-funded “Maritime 2050 Strategy”, has been opened at the Port of Tyne.
Established by a partnership of several organizations – including the Port of Tyne, PD Ports, Nissan, Connected Places Catapult, Accenture, Royal HaskoningDHV and Ubisoft – the facility will support collaboration within the sector and help to develop new solutions for technological challenges.
Chris Grayling, UK Secretary of State for Transport, visited the Port of Tyne to open the new centre, which will seek to optimize the wider logistics industry both nationally and globally.
Dr. Ilona Serwicka and Dr. Peter Holmes discuss the future of free zones in the UK in a recent Port Technology technical paper
He said: “Ports are vital to the UK’s economy and the Port of Tyne is no different – driving trade and supporting key businesses, such as Tetley and Nissan, to deliver to their consumers.
“The British maritime sector is world famous for driving innovation. The Innovation Hub is a fantastic way to increase efficiency, making our ports more attractive to businesses at home and abroad as well as ensuring the UK continues to lead the way in maritime technology for decades to come.”
According to a statement, the Maritime Innovation Hub will be “a catalyst” for the exchange of expertise and growth of advanced technologies.
Five-Point Plan Launched to Grow UK Ports #PTIDaily SEE MORE: https://t.co/0dFCSu8NwW@UKMajorPorts #uk #ports #investment pic.twitter.com/5vjjdWCdcg
— Port Technology (PTI) (@PortTechnology) November 20, 2018
Matt Beeton, Port of Tyne Chief Executive Officer, commented: “We’re delighted to launch the UK’s first Innovation Hub and welcome the support of all our partners in driving innovation for the benefit not just of the maritime sector, but also the global logistics and supply chain.
“It’s important that we harness skills and innovation from all industrial sectors to develop our global proposition and enhance our competitiveness.”
Frans Calje, PD Ports’ Chief Executive Officer, added: “Northern Ports need to collaborate with manufacturers and technology partners to increase their global competitiveness and rebalance the economy.
“The 2050 Innovation Hub will enable us to share knowledge and expertise to drive revolutionary change in the maritime industry powered by advancing technologies.”