Digital modelling centre for heritage sector to launch

A new £1m digital modelling and analysis centre for the conservation and heritage science sector will open next year, it has been announced.

Heritage organisations will be able to bring artefacts to the centre based at Manchester Metropolitan University's PrintCity, where a range of imaging, scanning, and x-ray equipment will be used to pinpoint origins.

The centre is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council through the UKRI Infrastructure Fund. The university said it would be the first of its kind to provide a "one-stop shop" to access specialist techniques.

Ben Edwards, Reader in Heritage and Archaeology at Manchester Met and Centre Director, said: “We’re incredibly excited about the possibilities for this new facility. 

"For the first time ever, we want to design a low-cost model for access where community groups, volunteer archaeological societies, and staff at small museums and galleries will be able to come and get a full picture of their object, artefact or historical remains."

The centre is expected to open in late 2025.