The Princess Royal officially opens new Innovation Centre

Situated on the University’s Streatham campus, the Innovation Centre provides flexible units, purpose designed for high-tech businesses undertaking research and development. Current tenants operate within the biosciences, environmental, IT and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Arriving at 2.00pm, The Princess was met by the Chairman of Devon County Council, Cllr John Rawlinson, the Chief Executive of Exeter City Council, Mr Philip Bostock, the Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Paul Smith and the Lady Mayoress, Mrs Susan Smith and the Chancellor of the University, Dr Floella Benjamin OBE.

Once inside the Innovation Centre they were joined by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Steve Smith, the Registrar, Mr David Allen, Sir Harry Studholme and Ms Jane Henderson from SWRDA and Dr Robin Jackson, Director of the Innovation Centre.

The Princess then visited a number of companies based at the Innovation Centre, encountering businesses as diverse as software testing specialists through to environmental scientists.

Commenting on the occasion, the Chancellor of the University, Dr Floella Benjamin said ‘It was marvellous to be able to mark the significance of the opening of the Innovation Centre Phase II with a wonderful celebration graced by The Princess Royal. The Centre will be of enormous benefit to the economy of both the City of Exeter and the South West region, providing support and facilities for high-tech, high growth businesses and attracting the brightest and the best to the area.’