A senior government delegation, led by Investment Zone Minister Alex Norris MP, visited the University of Nottingham's under-construction Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab last week, marking a major milestone in the East Midlands' emergence as a hub for net zero innovation.

The hard hat tour brought together key regional stakeholders including Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, and Professor Jane Norman, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nottingham. Representatives from regional contractor G F Tomlinson and East Midlands Freeport also attended, spotlighting progress on the lab and its role in supporting the UK’s green industrial strategy.

The Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab is backed by over £70 million of funding, including contributions from Research England's UK Research Partnership Investment Fund (UKRPIF) and private industry partners. Once completed and fully operational in mid-2026, the facility will conduct safe, high-power testing of hydrogen and ammonia-fuelled propulsion systems designed for use in transport sectors such as aerospace, automotive, marine, and power generation.

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Featuring cutting-edge cryogenic testing capabilities and environmental chambers for altitude simulation, the lab will serve as a cornerstone for decarbonisation research and technological development.

The ministerial visit also coincided with the completion of the East Midlands Investment Zone’s (EMIZ) first round of 'fast start' grants. Fifteen university-industry collaborations have been awarded more than £500,000 in funding to accelerate clean technology innovations. These initiatives span the region's four priority growth sectors: zero emissions propulsion, clean energy, sustainable advanced manufacturing and green construction.

Developed with input from the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Derby, the projects aim to convert academic research into commercial solutions, supporting regional deployment and strengthening supply chains.

Construction of the Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab continues a longstanding partnership between the University of Nottingham and G F Tomlinson, which has delivered multiple capital projects, including the nearby Advanced Manufacturing Building.

The £160 million, 10-year EMIZ programme represents a significant commitment by government and local authorities to drive economic growth through green industries. With infrastructure taking shape and funding already fuelling innovation, the East Midlands is positioning itself at the forefront of the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy.