A world-leading facility for extreme environment research, testing and training planned for Exeter Science Park will strengthen the Park’s position as a destination for science and technology innovation.
The nationally-significant facility, which will be of strategic importance to the UK’s future resilience, security and economic growth, is being developed by NauteXe Global. It will feature a research and development test tank, measuring 60 metres by 40 metres, with depths of up to 30 metres.
The NauteXe Extreme Environment Centre (NEEC) will serve organisations that operate in complex and hazardous environments. It will allow operators to test their technologies in realistic, simulated conditions – from the deep ocean floor to the harsh conditions of offshore wind installations and space – without the high cost, unpredictability and risk of live-environment trials. The test tank will be capable of simulating currents, waves and wind, and will support organisations across defence, offshore wind, subsea and space.
The facility will become part of Exeter Science Park’s growing innovation community, complementing the Park’s established strengths in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) and creating new opportunities for collaboration.
The facility will provide advanced research, testing and simulation capabilities designed to help organisations accelerate innovation, reduce development risk and bring new technologies to market more quickly.
The project is expected to attract substantial private investment, create highly skilled jobs and reinforce the South West’s reputation as a centre for innovation.
Lindsay Lucas, Chief Executive of Exeter Science Park, said: “This is a nationally significant project which will be of strategic importance to the region. It aligns strongly with Exeter Science Park’s mission to generate high-value jobs, drive productivity and deliver lasting economic growth.”
“The South West is home to world-leading universities and genuinely groundbreaking research which create a unique environment for this facility to thrive. In addition, our region has deep expertise in the critically important sectors it will serve and the selection of Exeter Science Park as the location means the South West is perfectly placed to capture the full economic and employment benefits it will bring.”
Marc Drew, Chief Executive of NauteXe Global, said: “Selecting Exeter Science Park as the location for the NauteXe Extreme Environment Centre is a significant strategic advantage for NauteXe Global. It places us at the heart of the South West’s growing corridor of innovation. Its connectivity, with immediate access to the M5 and proximity to Exeter Airport, together with the established ecosystem at the site, made it an ideal location for a facility of this kind.
“The South West is increasingly recognised as the UK’s centre for maritime autonomy and uncrewed systems and sits adjacent to the Celtic Sea floating offshore wind zone, making it uniquely positioned to support the next generation of dual-use capability development, testing and operational readiness.”
