GE Aviation to build research centre near Cheltenham

Aerospace engineering company GE Aviation is to build a new research and development facility in Gloucestershire.

The 30,000 sq ft electrical power integration centre (EPIC) will focus on advanced power generation, distribution and avionic control technologies.

The facility at Bishops Cleeve, near Cheltenham, will be fully operational by March 2011, the company said.

The South West Regional Development Agency is providing £3m of the cost.

Graham Harrison, director of international business at the agency, said it would ensure the South West remained at the "cutting edge of technology".

GE Aviation manufactures jet engines, components and integrated systems for commercial and military aircraft.