Science and Innovation Minister visits Terrapin

Opportunity to present cost and time-saving benefits of modern methods of construction (MMC) within the public estate, and to discuss Terrapin's research and development work..

Visit to Terrapin's head office in Milton Keynes on 8th September 2008 by the Minister for Science and Innovation, Ian Pearson.

The visit forms part of the Minister's ongoing strategy to develop relationships with innovative SMEs and share views on the role of Government in supporting and stimulating innovation in business and industry.

During his visit, Mr Pearson was given a tour of Terrapin's state-of-the-art production facility, where a range of permanent and temporary modular building solutions are purpose-designed and pre-fabricated, ready for fast and easy assembly on site - from complete hospitals to additional classrooms and prison extensions.

Commenting on his visit to Terrapin, Mr Pearson said: "As the Government announced in the 'Innovation Nation' White Paper earlier this year, we want the UK to be the best place in the world to run an innovative business".

"During my visit today I've seen how construction businesses are rising to that challenge by developing innovative building methods to save both time and money, helping to ensure they continue to grow in a competitive market".

Terrapin pioneered the development of offsite building to address the needs of post-war Britain and remains at the forefront of modular building technology.

Given the value and time saving benefits, offsite construction is regarded as one of the key techniques to meet the Government's massive commitment to new build and refurbishment programmes in areas such as healthcare, social housing, and education.

Patrick Howlett White, Managing Director of Terrapin comments: "We were delighted to be able to demonstrate our innovation in this area to the Minister, and to discuss what we believe will assist companies like Terrapin to sustain vital investment in RandD, from tax relief incentives through to further funding in technical skills and business relevant education".

"Indeed, Terrapin has forged mutually beneficial partnerships with higher education establishments such as Oxford Brookes as part of our commitment to encourage innovation through collaborative projects between our business and the knowledge base".

Terrapin is also working closely with SEEDA (South East England Development Agency), which promotes business innovation and growth in the region.

SEEDA provides specialist support to high growth businesses and works locally through Invest Milton Keynes.

Guy Hawking, SEEDA Investor Development Manager, comments: "SEEDA provides investment and support to help local companies to become successful and to thrive in Milton Keynes".

"Terrapin is an excellent example of an entrepreneurial and successful company that has recognised the value of RandD in producing innovation to create new opportunities for growth.".

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