€5m in funding for new construction technology centre
The Government has announced funding of €5 million over five years for a new construction technology centre, which will accelerate research and innovation within the construction sector.
The centre will be based at NUI Galway, and the consortium includes Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and University College Cork working with the Irish Green Building Council.
In line with the Government’s Housing for All strategy, the new centre will have a particular focus on advancing innovation and productivity in residential construction.
A team of researchers with expertise in the main areas of digital adoption, modern methods of construction and sustainability will be organised under five pillars to address the areas of productivity, affordability and Cost, quality and safety; sustainability; skills and training; and collaboration.
“The Government is investing billions – substantially above the EU average – in the future, building new homes, roads, public transport, schools, hospitals and other vital infrastructure,” said Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar.
“This new construction technology centre will make sure we are at the cutting edge of new developments in the sector, making sure Irish companies and the taxpayer are getting the best value for money, while building this important infrastructure in the most modern and efficient way possible,” he added.
Under Housing for All, the Government has expanded the remit of Enterprise Ireland to work with the domestic housebuilding sector for the first time
CEO, Leo Clancy said the new centre will leverage the best combination of skills, equipment and know-how in the Irish research system.
“Through innovation, the centre will help to increase the productivity, sustainability and export potential of the construction sector, while enabling reduced costs and build times for Ireland’s housing and infrastructural requirements,” he said.
Article Source: €5m in funding for new construction technology centre – RTE
