Published on:
27
June 2025
The Council has welcomed a visited by The National Robotarium to look at how robotics can improve services for local citizens.
The National Robotarium, a global research institute at Heriot-Watt University and Data-Driven Innovation hub in partnership with The University of Edinburgh, has an ambition to establish Scotland as a global leader in robotics, AI and other smart technologies. The National Robotarium is working closely with other global research institutes and industry experts across a wide range of sectors to deliver practical robotic solutions and create new businesses and jobs, and engaging with the UK and Scottish Governments to advance and future-proof building long-term the UK’s robotics skills and capabilities, improve productivity and stimulate economic growth across the country.
Earlier this week the Council welcomed Lisa Farrell, Business Development Manager at The National Robotarium. Lisa met a number of senior officers, including the Council’s Chief Executive Nikki Bridle, to explore partnership opportunities. They visited three key development sites in Alloa earmarked for transformational projects: the site at earmarked for the Forthbank Living Lab Initiative, the Wellbeing Hub and Lochies School site in Alloa West and the location of the proposed new children’s house and accommodation for care leavers.
Clackmannanshire Council’s Chief Executive Nikki Bridle said: “We were delighted to host Lisa from the National Robotarium and share with her our ambitions for innovation in the county and how robotics and AI may be able to support what we do. There is fantastic potential in this area, and we are looking forward to continuing our discussions with the National Robotarium to explore potential opportunities.”
Lisa said: “It was an honour to meet with leaders from Clackmannanshire Council to discuss how robotics could support their transformational ambitions across the region. At The National Robotarium we believe in a future where robotics can make people’s lives, homes, health and jobs better. To do this effectively, it is vital that new technologies and innovations are developed with a rich understanding of the communities they’ll support.”
The visit was the start of a strategic conversation between the Council and the National Robotarium to ensure Clackmannanshire is on the front foot as we embark on the next technological revolution with robotics and AI.