Major milestone reached as the ADMC begins to take shape

Construction of the Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre (ADMC) has reached an exciting milestone, with work now underway to erect the building’s steel frame.

Located on Lowmoor Road in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, the £30 million development is beginning to take shape at Ashfield Automation Park, opposite Sutton Parkway railway station.

The ADMC is the flagship project within the government-funded Towns Fund programme for Kirkby-in-Ashfield and Sutton-in-Ashfield. It represents a major investment in the future of automation, advanced manufacturing, logistics and skills development - not only within Ashfield, but across the wider East Midlands and beyond.

Creating a national centre of excellence for automation

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Once complete, the purpose-built 3,500m² centre will help businesses of all sizes explore and adopt the latest technologies across manufacturing, distribution, logistics and automation.

Businesses will be able to access specialist knowledge, cutting-edge equipment and practical support to develop and test new products, explore potential solutions and build a strong business case for automation.

Through research and development, prototyping, proof of principle, showcasing and demonstration, and skills and training, the ADMC will help organisations improve productivity, increase efficiency and strengthen their long-term competitiveness.

The centre will also create opportunities for businesses, researchers, technology providers and education partners to work collaboratively on real industrial challenges.

Supporting skills and future careers

Alongside its support for businesses, the ADMC will play an important role in developing the skilled workforce needed to support the growth of advanced manufacturing and automation.

The centre is expected to support more than 2,000 learners and 675 apprentices, helping local people develop valuable skills in areas including robotics, automation, engineering and digital technology.

By bringing employers and education providers together, the ADMC will help address skills shortages, create pathways into high-value careers and support the development of the next generation of engineers and technical specialists.

Nottingham Trent University is a key strategic partner in the project and will lead academic research and development at the centre. Its experts will also work with businesses to explore how automation could be used to improve their operations.

Construction progressing well

With the steel frame now being erected, the structure of the ADMC is becoming increasingly visible. The next stages of construction will include the installation of the roof and external cladding.

Lindum, the construction partner delivering the development for Ashfield District Council, is also supporting the next generation of construction professionals during the build. A T Level student from Vision West Nottinghamshire College has joined the site team, gaining valuable hands-on industry experience while contributing to the project.

The latest milestone brings the ADMC another step closer to becoming a national centre of excellence for automation - helping businesses turn ideas into practical solutions while supporting innovation, investment, skills and high-value employment across the region.

To learn more about the ADMC and how it could support your business, explore our website or contact the team at info@theadmc.co.uk.