‘University of the Sea’ to reinforce Wirral’s maritime credentials

A new £20 million Maritime Knowledge Hub, described as a ‘University of the Sea’ will be a collaboration between Mersey Maritime, Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU), Wirral Council and Peel Ports. The aim is to create a centre of excellence, producing the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators of the future.

The project will see the renovation of the disused Grade II, Victorian Hydraulic Tower on Wirral Waters transformed into a leading centre for engineering skills. Currently the centre is based at Lairdside. A funding bid is underway to regenerate the Hydraulic Tower with a view to relocating by 2019.

The Hub is already supporting start-up and existing SMEs, helping them commercialise new technology, through the Maritime Business and Technology Incubator. The Maritime Industries Centre supports management, while a Marine Education and Training Centre develops new new training programmes. It also includes a 360 degree marine and engineering ship handling simulator.

The aim is to capitalise on the existing skills and expertise of local people, to build a sustainable long term future. More than 10% of the Liverpool City Region’s GDP is already generated from maritime and energy.

CG image by Uniform