'Important investment' as innovation centre wins green light

A business boss has welcomed "an important investment" after planning chiefs awarded a new innovation centre project the green light.

Adrian Ellam, chief executive of manufacturer Invertek Drives, said the new facility in Welshpool would create skilled employment and boost the local economy.

Invertek Drives makes variable frequency drives that control electric motors in a range of applications including air conditioning and refrigeration.

It is planning to build a new innovation centre and global headquarters on Offa's Dyke Business Park in Buttington, next to its existing HQ and manufacturing facility.

The new building will have modern offices, prototype development areas, small-scale production facilities, meeting rooms, staff facilities and a reception area.

Established in 1998, Invertek Drives employs more than 420 people and the new home in Welshpool is expected to create an additional 100 R&D jobs over a ten-year period.

It will also provide training and long-term career opportunities for people in Mid Wales.

Invertek Drives chief executive Adrian Ellam said: "This new facility represents an important investment in the future of Invertek Drives here in Welshpool and on a global scale.

"The variable frequency drive sector is highly competitive and we recognise that our continued success relies on keeping pace with the latest technologies and meeting the expectations of our customers.

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"This flagship building will allow us to create skilled employment opportunities, support the local economy and develop the next generation of variable frequency drives which will serve our clients globally.

"Alongside our commitment to advancing our facilities and products, as a business, we are proud to place a strong emphasis on reducing climate change through the delivery of energy-efficient technologies and our ongoing commitment to sustainability and biodiversity."