Organisations behind a project to establish a centre of manufacturing excellence say they look forward to more people taking advantage of the scheme.

The ‘Fab Lab’ in Keighley’s Dalton Mill represents the first stage of the project. It opened in April, and is only the second facility of its kind in the UK.

It comprises a digital fabrication laboratory, which has been used by businesses, schools and other sections of the community.

The fabrication laboratory is a not-for-profit company established by Airedale Partnership, Bradford Council and Leeds City College. The initiative is supported by Council grants and cash from Leeds City College. It is run by a team of engineers and product designers.

Bradford Council leader Council-lor David Green said: “The Fab Lab can be used by everyone and experts will be on hand to develop the inventions or products.

“We hope that this will change the perception of manufacturing held by young people and promote the uptake of technology, science and engineering subjects in schools.”

Mick Milner, director of Centre of Manufacturing Excellence and Fab Lab Airedale, said: “We have here a manufacturing facility that is bounded only by the imagination of the user.”

Paul Cox, vice principal of Keighley Campus Leeds City College, said: “We are delighted to be involved with the Fab Lab and are excited about the opportunities it offers our students.”

The laboratory has a free prototype and design offer open to businesses in Keighley and Bradford until the end of this month.