Advanced Manufacture & Research Centre (AMRC)
Mainer Associates was proud to support the University of Sheffield in the BREEAM assessment of AMRC North West, a cutting-edge £20 million research and innovation facility located at the heart of the Samlesbury Enterprise Zone in Lancashire. The project successfully achieved its target BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable design and construction.
Developed to accelerate industrial innovation and support regional growth, the facility provides advanced R&D space for manufacturers to collaborate, experiment, and scale new technologies. Mainer Associates worked alongside the project team to embed best practice in energy efficiency, resource use, and long-term environmental performance - aligning with the University’s sustainability goals and the UK’s wider net-zero ambitions.
Image Source: AMRC
Image Source: AMRC
Highlights
Client
University of Sheffield
Location
Lancashire, North West
Project Value
£20 million
Specification
Commercial
Services
BREEAM
Case Study: AMRC North West
Client: University of Sheffield
Architect: Cartwright Pickard
Location: Lancashire
Services: BREEAM
Certification Achieved: BREEAM ‘Very Good’
Overview
Mainer Associates was proud to support the University of Sheffield in the delivery of AMRC North West, a £20 million advanced manufacturing facility located within Lancashire’s Samlesbury Enterprise Zone. Designed to drive industrial innovation and economic growth in the region, the development successfully achieved a BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’, with Mainer Associates providing comprehensive assessment services throughout the project lifecycle.
A Future-Focused Innovation Hub
AMRC North West is part of the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre network and serves as a key asset in supporting the development and adoption of advanced technologies by local and regional manufacturers. The facility provides dedicated research, design, and collaboration space, with a clear focus on low-carbon innovation and sustainable manufacturing solutions.
Key Sustainability Achievements
BREEAM ‘Very Good’ Rating: Reflects robust performance across energy, water, waste, and materials categories, in line with national sustainability benchmarks.
Energy Efficiency: The building incorporates high-performance systems and passive design strategies to reduce energy consumption and operational carbon emissions.
Sustainable Construction Practices: Responsible sourcing of materials and minimisation of construction impact helped reduce the project’s overall environmental footprint.
Long-Term Environmental Value: Designed to support evolving industrial needs while maintaining strong environmental performance over time.
Our Role
Mainer Associates provided expert BREEAM Assessment services, working closely with the design and delivery teams to ensure environmental targets were fully integrated into the project from concept through to completion. Our approach focused on early-stage alignment with BREEAM standards, proactive engagement with key stakeholders, and clear guidance to maximise sustainable outcomes.
Project Impact
Officially opened in 2023, AMRC North West stands as a regional centre of excellence for advanced manufacturing and sustainable industrial innovation. Beyond supporting the local economy, it demonstrates how modern research and development facilities can be both high-performing and environmentally responsible - delivering value for industry, academia, and the wider community.