A £3.3 million training and research centre for the food manufacturing sector in the East Midlands has reached the second stage of construction.

The project is a collaborative venture between the University of Lincoln and Lincolnshire County Council.

Two new workspaces - with the larger a dedicated teaching and learning centre for the food sector - form part of the scheme.

The centre will offer a range of academic programmes and promote partnerships with regional industry operators.

Phase two will build on the success the first stage by increasing the range of training and research opportunities. It will also address the shortage of skilled operators and managers within the food manufacturing sector and support innovation.

Val Braybrooks, director at the Holbeach campus of the university, where the centre is situated, said: “Phase two will complement the current facilities and provision to provide an outstanding facility in support of the sectors need for higher level skills development, access to research, the latest technologies and innovation.

“The facility will also enhance our partnership working with schools so that we can begin to seriously address the shortage of young people seeking to develop their careers within the sector.”

Professor David Chiddick, vice-chancellor for the university, added: “Holbeach is a perfect example of developing an industry and making it more competitive. By working together, this industry has become competitive worldwide.”

Councillor Julia Taylor, County Councillor for Holbeach for 18 years, said: “This development has put Holbeach on the map and I am very pleased to be associated with it.”