The Westcott Space Cluster welcomed the Minister for Science, Research and Innovation, Andrew Griffith MP on 27 March, to witness the incredible innovative work being done around space propulsion, satellites, drone technology and comms at the Westcott Venture Park and Enterprise Zone.
Following an invite from Buckingham MP Greg Smith, the visit was arranged to highlight the importance of the Westcott Space Cluster and Enterprise Zone as an important research & development testing facility and integral component of the UK Space Infrastructure.
The visit provided the opportunity for the Minister to visit a number of the testing facilities and meet the businesses operating at Westcott to learn about their growth plans and current opportunities and challenges. It also showcased how the landowners, Patrizia, Buckinghamshire Council and formerly Buckinghamshire LEP, and the Satellite Applications Catapult have worked in partnership to develop the site and create the conditions for innovative businesses to grow.
The visit concluded with a facilitated business round-table discussion and photo opportunity to mark the start of development for the UK Space Agency and Buckinghamshire Enterprise Zone funded Westcott Hub.
In addition, the visit by the Minister coincided with the launch of the UK Space Agency Connectivity in Low-Earth Orbit (C-LEO) funding programme, which will provide up to £60 million of funding over the next four years to UK companies and researchers to develop innovative satellite communications technology.
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