A Hub of Engineering Opportunity: Hethel Innovation
Innovation & Engineering in Norwich
Norwich may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about cutting-edge technology and engineering, but a growing number of businesses are proving otherwise. At the heart of this transformation is Hethel Innovation, an organisation dedicated to accelerating the growth of high-performance businesses in Norfolk, made up of Hethel Engineering Centre, Scottow Enterprise Park and Broadland Food Innovation Centre.
We spoke with Arthur, Head of Sales at Hethel Innovation, who offered insight into the work being done across their innovation hubs:
Find Out More“I’m the Head of Sales for Hethel Innovation. I have the lucky job of keeping our sites—Hethel Engineering Centre, Scottow Enterprise Park, and Broadland Food Innovation Centre—brimming with innovative companies that collaborate and grow together. It’s all about ensuring the community thrives.”
Arthur Allen
Hethel Engineering Centre stands as the flagship hub of advanced engineering and manufacturing in Norfolk.
Since opening in 2006, the centre has been an award-winning business and innovation hub, providing flexible workspaces, expert support, and a dynamic, collaborative environment.
Operated by Hethel Innovation, the centre aims to foster innovation and business growth. As Arthur explains:
“Hethel Innovation is first and foremost a business support company. We aim to be champions of game changers, facilitating the growth of ambitious companies and helping them make lasting impact in the region.”
One of the standout success stories is Proeon Systems, a long-time tenant that has grown significantly within the centre:
“They’ve been here as long as I have. Over time, they took on more space until they eventually moved into their own, much larger facility.
It’s amazing to see a company like that thrive and attract the kind of growth and investment they truly deserve.”
While Norfolk may not be widely recognised for high-tech enterprise, Arthur insists that perception is rapidly changing:
“People don’t immediately associate Norfolk with innovative tech businesses but just walk down the halls here and you’ll see companies doing incredible things you’d never expect.”
Take Ansible Motion, for example. This local innovator is pioneering Driver-in-the-Loop (DIL) simulators, working with major global automotive brands to create immersive 360° simulation environments.
“Walking into their unit feels like stepping into NASA.
They started in a single office and grew organically, which is exactly the kind of story we love to see here.”
With Lotus Cars next door and a cluster of motorsport and engineering firms nearby, the area has quietly become a powerhouse of technical skill and innovation.
“We recently welcomed a motorsport wiring company that already had a base in Silverstone.
When they needed to expand, Norfolk was a natural next step because of its strong engineering heritage.”
Exciting plans for the future
Whether it’s a start-up seeking a single office or a growing enterprise needing specialised workshop space, Hethel Engineering Centre offers flexible and customisable workspaces. Businesses can expand, reconfigure, or create tailored environments that suit their operations.
With exciting plans on the horizon and a growing community of businesses, Hethel Innovation are committed to expanding their impact, continuing to support those who are shaping the region.
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