The new £2m factory in Lanarkshire is being launched by the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre.

Anyone within the construction industry can access 35,000 sq. ft. of workshop space fitted out with state-of-the-art production and prototyping equipment and technology.

The facility can be used to test and develop new products, processes, systems and solutions, from early stage ideas through to commercial launches.

The building will also provide a range of collaboration and training facilities to allow organisations in the private, public and academic sectors to share knowledge and information.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The opening of CSIC’s Innovation Factory, the only facility of its kind in the UK, will offer businesses across the country access to cutting edge technology and a state-of-the-art facility.

“Of course, it’s not just companies who can take advantage of the Innovation Factory.

“Housing associations, councils, Transport Scotland and the NHS have all worked with the Innovation Centre since it was established in 2014.

“We want to see more collaboration in the future, across the public and private sector, and I would encourage everyone to get involved and make the most of the Innovation Factory.”

Stephen Good, Chief Executive of Construction Scotland Innovation Centre said: “The relevance of the facility has already been confirmed with companies registering their interest in using it months before we were even ready to open.”