A NEW deal between the aerospace industry and the government – including a direct £15 million investment in South Gloucestershire – was announced by Business Secretary Greg Clark today.

At a government event in Bristol on December 6, Mr Clark announced new support for the UK’s leading aerospace sector and the next generation of transport to tackle ground congestion and pollution in towns and cities.

The Business Secretary said that he recognised the West of England as being synonymous with industrial innovation and creativity, and visited the Bristol Robotics Laboratory – one of the key examples of technological advancement in the region.

The package announced last Thursday includes: £15 million government investment for GKN Aerospace’s new Global Technology Centre in South Gloucestershire. The centre is expected to open in 2020 and will ensure the UK is a hub for world class innovative technology for the next generation of fuel-efficient aircraft.

Mr Clark said: “This deal is our modern Industrial Strategy in action, combining the forces of government and industry to boost a sector that is vital to our future economy, export capabilities and will place the UK at the forefront of the next generation of air travel.”

Regional Mayor, Tim Bowles, said: “This latest government announcement of further investment and ongoing support, will help us to develop our vision for the continued success of the West of England."