£350,000 boost for new high-tech Devon manufacturing plant

Major redevelopment plans by a Devon-based microelectronics company are to be supported with an investment of £350,000 by the South West RDA (Regional Development Agency).

The Eurotech Group plc - one of the leading manufacturers in printed circuit board (PCB) technology and microelectronics - is building new high-tech manufacturing facilities as part of a redevelopment of its site in Salterton Road, Exmouth. The project will secure existing jobs at the 100-strong site and the company is committed to creating an additional five jobs, with the hope that more will follow over the course of the project.
 
The South West RDA today confirmed its support for the project with a £350,000 investment through its Grant for Business Investment (GBI) programme. The cash will ensure the new factory is built to high environmental standards, incorporating a range of eco-friendly features.
 
Richard Hoskin, Business Investment Manager for the South West RDA, said: “This is exactly the sort of high-tech business and quality jobs that our region needs to build on for its future economic growth and success.
 
“We are delighted that Eurotech chose to reaffirm its commitment to manufacturing in Devon and that we have been able to work closely with the company to ensure it had the support it needed to make the project happen.”
 
The new facility, totalling 35,000 sq ft will contain new and improved equipment including new plating lines and will allow Eurotech to better match the requirements of capability and capacity for future UK, European and worldwide customers.
 
The building will be built to BREEAM standards and will feature a number of renewable technologies including rain water harvesting and solar panels.
 
David Douglas, Finance Director for The Eurotech Group, said: "I am very excited about this project which will not only provide Eurotech with new premises but which will also enhance the company's capabilities as a result of new equipment. These are difficult times for manufacturing companies we have a highly skilled workforce who will enable us to ride out the recession. This business has been in Exmouth for nearly 50 years and is one of the largest and most important employers in the area. I am sure that as a result of this investment it will be here for many years to come. I would like to thank the South West RDA for its involvement and also East Devon District Council, who have also been very supportive."