University of Salford - World’s most advanced IT innovation labs launched for construction industry

A futuristic virtual environment centre – one of the most advanced in the world and unique in Europe – is to be officially launched for the Built Environment at the University of Salford on Wednesday 2 May.
The University’s Think Lab is a state-of-the-art facility that harnesses leading ICT developments to solve current and future challenges of the construction industry, commerce and the community.
At the launch, leading figures from construction and the built environment will be given demonstrations of the centre’s latest technology, including research outcomes covering areas from digital design and facilities management to urban planning and regeneration
Director of the Think Lab, Professor Peter Brandon said: “These unique facilities are capable of revolutionising the way the construction industry interacts and does business. The Think Lab is already engaged in some of the world’s leading research in fields such as virtual urban planning, regeneration and digital design. The possibilities for this industry are huge.”
Salford MP Hazel Blears said: "Salford University is once again at the forefront of innovation and creativity, leading the world in harnessing the latest ICT developments for the benefit of the whole community.
"I am absolutely delighted that the University is at the cutting edge and I know the centre will be a great asset in attracting more business, investment and jobs to the city and help boost even further, the regeneration which is taking place in Salford. This is another positive step forward for Salford and its people."
Researchers at the Think Lab are already planning collaborative projects with other virtual environment centres worldwide and are looking for business partners who will benefit from the facilities.
Peter said: “The Think Lab offers a wealth of opportunities for cutting edge research in the international arena. It is designed for interaction and collaboration and we look forward to applying its innovative technology to the construction industry.”

Email: j.brown@salford.ac.uk