A new research and data centre aimed at tackling economic challenges in the West of England and boosting growth is launching on Thursday.
The Brunel Centre has been created through a partnership between the University of Bath, UWE Bristol and Futures West, and will pioneer new approaches to economic research and data analysis.
The centre's findings will be made publicly available to businesses and policymakers in a bid to help power the region’s industrial strategy, those behind the project have said.
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Dr Lucy Martin, director of the Brunel Centre and based in Bath, said: “We have an ambitious brief to deliver real economic insights, tools and information to help the West of England grow, train people, attract investment, tackle inequalities, improve sustainability and become an even greater place to live and do business.
“Success for us will be seeing our research used when political or business decisions that affect the West of England are being made, whether in the region or at a national level.”
The centre will receive Research England Development funding of £4.5m over the next five years, to March 2030, but the partners behind the centre are hoping it will become a long-term, permanent capability for the region.
Helen Godwin, mayor of the West of England, said: "This £4.5m investment in research for our universities is a fantastic boost for the West of England - and a real game-changer for our region’s future.
"The Brunel Centre’s work will help drive the kind of growth that creates new opportunities, supports local jobs, and brings real benefits to people and businesses across the region. I’m excited to see how the centre’s insights will make a lasting difference in our communities.”
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The centre's main aim will be to tackle long-term economic challenges for the region. This includes raising productivity, enabling sustainable and inclusive growth, driving innovation, and supporting key regional sectors and firms.
Futures West chair Sir Iain Gray added: “This launch comes at a crucial period for the West of England, following the election of a new metro mayor and several funding announcements that will benefit our region.
"Now is the time to make a compelling evidence-led case for investment that will benefit our businesses and economy."