Radio Spectrum Centre could spur Mid Wales Jobs boost 

Plans to set up a National Spectrum Centre (NSC) in Mid Wales could lead to the creation of more than 60 full-time, high-value jobs. An Economic Impact Assessment of the proposal carried out by the Business School at Aberystwyth University estimates that between 42 and 66.5 permanent positions could be created as a direct consequence of establishing the NSC, as well as up to 172 temporary construction jobs during the phased development of the centre.

Developed in partnership between Aberystwyth University and QinetiQ, the centre would train the next generation of radio spectrum and systems engineers and upskill current engineers to harness the potential of radio spectrum technologies that enable wireless connectivity between places, people and devices.

The aim is to enable industry and government to identify and demonstrate the next generation of innovative wireless applications needed to double the radio spectrum’s annual UK economic contribution to over £100bn by 2025.

“Developments in spectrum engineering and innovation and the start-up companies forming as a result of the NSC will create new opportunities for employment and training for the Mid Wales workforce and population. In particular the NSC will provide opportunities for the younger working aged population seeking to remain in the area,” says the report by Professor Nick Perdikis, Dr Sarah Clarke and Dr Wyn Morris of the Aberystwyth Business School.

The proposal has the support of Welsh Government, which has provided an initial investment of £60,000 towards developing a new innovation and research facility.