Representing Southern Innovation at UKSPA

Science Park Directors Lucinda Lamont and Stuart Perry attended the first conference of the UK Science Park Association (UKSPA) of 2025 recently.

Lucinda commented, “The UKSPA spring conference was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with peers, explore common challenges and engage in thought-provoking discussions. Thank you to our hosts, UKSPA and Exeter Science Park, and to the speakers and thought leaders who shared their insights on a diverse range of topics.

“Key takeouts for me were around the importance of funding innovation and support for businesses beyond the ‘golden triangle’; why we mustn’t let up on reducing energy consumption, even if achieving net zero doesn’t appear to be imminently achievable and in the face of the US decision to curtail access to climate data; and the likely impact of a declining university student uptake on the UK’s workforce. These are current and quite urgent challenges to address as we work to safeguard Britain’s strengths in science and technology on the world stage.

“Of course, strengthening sectoral networks through events like these is an excellent way to reinforce a nationwide culture of support for companies from spinout and start-up onwards and, ultimately, grow the national economy. I look forward to continuing these important conversations in the coming months.”