Solent Named ‘New Capital of Industry’

[Laura Downton]

South coast region rides the waves of industrial success

The Solent’s contribution to England’s economic success is recognised today with the area named a ‘New Capital of Industry’ for its success in the marine engineering market.

The Solent is an excellent example of accomplishment in the South East with its marine sector contributing £5.5bn to the local economy and providing 77,000 jobs. The south coast region has invested in skills and training and a new £48,000 welding facility at Southampton City College.

Jay Hunt, Acting Area Director for Hampshire and Isle of Wight for the South East England Development Agency says:
“The Solent is a major global hub for marine industry covering shipbuilding, manufacturing and marine leisure, through to high-tech electronics and environmental management, with one in eight marine businesses looking to expand. Thanks to considerable investment the Solent has the talent and technology necessary to remain at the heart of innovations in the marine engineering industry.”

Developing the skills needed to fuel the area’s marine sector, Southampton City College works closely with local employers such as South Boats, Palmer Johnson Yachts and Burgess Marine to provide Marine Apprenticeships and courses in cutting-edge aluminium welding.

Lindsey Noble, Principal and CEO of Southampton City College, says:
“The boat building industry is a major part of the south’s economy. We want to make sure learners are armed with all the relevant skills to help them succeed. The students of today are the boat builders of the future. Nurturing the talents of these individuals will keep the UK ahead of its competitors and able to excel in industries like the marine sector.”

The ‘New Capitals of Industry’ list was produced by the Association of Colleges (AoC) ahead of Colleges Week (9-15 November), a national celebration of the role colleges play in providing opportunities for communities, businesses and individuals.

The Solent joins towns and areas up and down the country, including Brighton, Warwickshire and Cumbria, that have demonstrated considerable growth over the last few years and are examples of the development of new industries and skills which will keep the UK competitive.

Clive Jeffery, Owner of South Boats SP Ltd, says:
“The marine engineering sector is growing rapidly – we need employees with high-level skills to work in the industry. Southampton City College provides its students with the experience and ability to slot easily into our business and drive growth.”

Colleges Week is coordinated and organised by the Association of Colleges and the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS).