UK national telecoms research lab opens in Solihull

Dozens of jobs are to be created with the establishment of a UK telecommunications lab in Solihull.

The lab will act as a secure research facility bringing together telecom operators, suppliers and academics to research and test ways of boosting the security, resilience and performance of the UK’s mobile networks.

It aims to help close the digital skills gap locally as well as nationally by creating dozens of specialised jobs in telecoms and cyber security.

Tech minister Damian Collins said: “After this summer’s stunning Commonwealth Games, it is great to feel the buzz in the city yet again in Birmingham Tech Week.

“Fast-growing firms are cementing Birmingham’s status as a tech powerhouse – boosting jobs and spreading economic growth right across the West Midlands.

“As a result, there is no better home for the new UK Telecoms Lab, which will turn the region into a centre for expertise and innovation in the security of next-generation mobile networks.”

The government is expected to announce further details about the lab in due course.

Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Tech is one of the most exciting and fastest growing sectors in our region. This fantastic announcement that Solihull will be the home of the new UK Telecoms Lab yet again underlines the strength of this important sector for us here in the West Midlands.

“The lab will bring a wide range of stakeholders together to drive innovation and create high-quality new jobs for local people.

“As we mark Birmingham Tech Week, it’s a great time to remember that we are at the cutting edge and – with our tech sector already valued at over £15bn – we have an exciting future ahead of us.” Insider media