Urban Foresight was commissioned to advise on the development of the nascent compound semiconductor cluster in North East England. Our analysis reviewed the potential to establish the region as a global hub for ultra-high value manufacturing in semiconductors.

Compound semiconductors are the ubiquitous enabling electronic components that overcome the limitations of silicon-based devices in terms of heat, weight, power and speed.

They are helping to deliver transformational new technologies and  services. Some of these markets include electric and autonomous vehicles, satellite and 5G/6G communications, energy decarbonisation, IoT sensors and imaging technologies.

Our analysis reviewed the size and health of the sector in North East England. This covered the entire value chain, including fabrication, packaging, assembly, materials, sub-systems, ancillary products, and end use applications.

It established baseline figures on the number of employees, turnover, growth potential, innovation plans and aspirations, and skills requirements of businesses in the North East.

We also proposed options for an operational model with suggested structure and governance for the cluster.

Our analysis and recommendations were used to increase the profile for the cluster and attract investment to the region.