Work starts on £22M Edinburgh robotics research centre

Robertson Construction has begun work on the National Robotarium at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh.

The steel-framed facility, which will be the largest and most advanced of its type in the UK, will be a centre of excellence for pioneering research for robotics and artificial intelligence.

The National Robotarium will create innovative solutions to global challenges using cutting-edge research, product design and industry collaboration. Bringing together academics and global companies, the facility will provide a catalyst for entrepreneurship and is expected to deliver sustainable economic benefit to Edinburgh, the UK and beyond.

David Cairns, Managing Director, Robertson Construction Central East said: “The National Robotarium building is designed to be as innovative as the research taking place within its walls. The commitment to sustainability and the wellbeing of its staff and students mean the facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology for energy efficiency and production and will boast considerable green space.”

Funded as part of the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal, the National Robotarium is a collaboration between Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh. The 3,700m² building will house three distinct research and development areas, providing bespoke facilities for Robotics & Autonomous Systems (RAS), Human & Robotics Interaction (HRI) and High Precision Manufacturing.

BHC are the steelwork contractor for the project.