First minister opens technology centre

The first minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones AM, has officially opened Control Techniques’ new technology facility in Mid Wales.

The company has developed a new engineering campus on land adjacent to its current company headquarters on Pool Road, Newtown. The expansion has been supported by the Welsh Government, which has constructed and leased the facility to support the creation of new highly-skilled jobs. 

On a visit to the site today to formally open the lab Carwyn Jones, first minister, said: ”Control Techniques is a world-class R&D facility and we’re pleased to be able to support a company that’s not only a major employer in Mid-Wales, but also a large contributor to the regional economy. I’m delighted that thanks to Welsh Government we’ve been able to secure the new R&D facility investment in Newtown.

“This is another example of how we are a pro-business government, working closely with companies to create jobs and growth in every part of Wales.”

Work on the 900m2 lab, which included the redevelopment and extension of the existing car park, began in October 2014. The new facility enables the company to expand its offer through the development of new products and technologies. It also creates extra office and meeting space, as well as a customer showroom and product testing labs.

Control Techniques employs more than 2,000 people across 55 global locations, including around 600 people across its two facilities in Newtown. The business designs and manufactures variable speed drives and automation solutions for a range of commercial and industrial applications.

Scott Anderson, president of Control Techniques, said: “We are proud of our long association with Mid Wales, and developing our operation here has always been a priority. The new facility will enable us to grow as a business, both physically and in terms of the technological advancements we can offer to our customers.

“It is also an important signal to the market that we are investing heavily in our technical capabilities, as we continue to research emerging technologies which will deliver the longer-term growth we are working towards.

“We are grateful to the First Minister for visiting our new Technology Centre and to our various partners for their support throughout the design and planning stages. We continue looking forward to an exciting future here in Newtown.”