TWO projects in South Ayrshire have secured £2million of investment as they prepare to play a key role in strengthening Scotland’s manufacturing industry.

South Ayrshire Council, together with partners Ayrshire College, Ayrshire Engineering Alliance and the University of Strathclyde, has been awarded funding from the Advancing Manufacturing Challenge Fund (AMCF).

A total of £15.8 million has been allocated to 12 projects across universities, colleges, public sector bodies and third sector organisations in Scotland. South Ayrshire Council is one of just three local authorities to secure funds, and the only council to win two bids.

The first project will help develop an Aerospace Digital Visualisation (ADV) Suite based at the Aeronautical Aeronautical Engineering Training Centre at Ayrshire College’s Ayr Campus. The project will receive £1.1 million of funding.

The ADV Suite will give access to innovative manufacturing technology, including cutting edge virtual reality, augmented reality and digital visualisation, to help them enter or expand their presence in the aerospace sector.

The second project secured almost £900,000 and is set to help companies overcome barriers barriers to entering the aerospace and space sectors, by improving their productivity and competitiveness.

South Ayrshire Councillor Brian McGinley, Portfolio Holder for Economy and Culture, commented: “The Aerospace Digital Visualisation Suite and Aerospace and Space Supply Chain Programme offer a superb resource to help companies innovate, develop skills and improve productivity.

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