A new facility that lets entrepreneurs and product designers turn their ideas into reality opened today in Altrincham.
Trafford Fab Lab, on Stamford New Road, gives anyone access to a range of advanced digital manufacturing technology.
It’s a collaboration between Trafford Council, Trafford College and the Manchester-based Manufacturing Institute, who will run the facility.
The Fab Lab actually opened last spring but has now completed a programme of renovation work.
Neville Chamberlain, chairman of the Manufacturing Institute, said: “Fab Labs go right to the heart of our mission – to support manufacturing. Altrincham is the perfect spot for a Fab Lab.
“We’re right in the middle of the town centre, with great public transport links, and we have the fantastic support of our partners Trafford Council and Trafford College.
We look forward to making this Fab Lab a special success. ”
Cllr Sean Anstee, Leader of Trafford Council, said: “Trafford Fab Lab will be accessible to all residents young and old and local businesses to encourage entrepreneurship and the growth and development of manufacturing skills. Trafford Fab Lab has got off to a great start and I look forward to seeing it go from strength to strength.”
And Altrincham artist John Lockwood, who is a regular Fab Lab user, added: “The guys there are brilliant. You can do your own projects and there is a great team spirit. People are always happy to talk about what they are doing and always ready to give you advice.
‘You can pay for commercial time, or go in on the community days and work on your own stuff just paying for materials.”
Today’s opening event will be hosted by BBC Radio Manchester’s Andy Crane and will feature a keynote speech by BBC Digital’s Jane Murison.
