Solent Marine Community update
Marine South East is pleased to have been awarded funds by Southampton Partnership to take forward Phase II of the Solent Marine Community (SMC) project, which will run until 31st March 2008 and will build on some of the work previously undertaken by Southampton Enterprise Hub.
The project will push into new areas that will benefit the Solent area generally and Southampton specifically, focusing on 3 principle areas:
(i) Facilitation of a Marine Systems and Propulsion micro-cluster
(ii) Facilitation of a Marine Environment and Pollution Control micro-cluster
(iii) Production of a web and hard-copy resource package designed to promote the Solent area to potential investors
The Marine Systems and Propulsion group, facilitated by Graham Clarke, is examining the potential for the development of a hybrid drive system for small craft, whereby a gas turbine could be used to power the craft via an electric motor or hydraulic system. Undergraduates from University of Southampton will be engaged in the research. If developed, this system would create much more useable space in small craft and would therefore offer a significant advantage over conventional drive systems.
Graham commented "The unique opportunity offered by the SMC project is to bring together world-class partners who would not otherwise have the chance to work cooperatively. Our meetings to-date are proving very productive."
Roger Mabbott is facilitating the Marine Environment and Pollution Control group. A major part of the group's activities will involve the establishment of a library of information pertaining to the marine environment and pollution control. Much information and data has been generated by local universities, research establishments and businesses, and the group would aim to create a central repository for this material, providing an exceptional resource to the field. A website will be established to direct interested parties to the library resource and to promote the group and its activities. Roger commented "Southampton has become a world-class centre of excellence for marine pollution control and our work with the Marine Environment and Pollution Control micro-cluster will strengthen this position."
The third strand of the Solent Marine Community project would be the creation of a web and hard-copy resource package for the national and international promotion of the extensive marine capabilities of the Solent area to potential customers and investors. This will incorporate the micro-clusters (to illustrate a dynamic, knowledge-based sector) but will also highlight key companies and capabilities contributing to a diverse maritime presence.
If you would like further information on this project email Stephen Sharpe on stephen@marinesoutheast.co.uk
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