Shared Island proposal for new learning opportunities at Portview

Portview and Louth and Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB), through its Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) in Dundalk, are seeking Shared Island support for a project connecting community access to skills with advanced manufacturing expertise.

The application remains pending. The facility, equipment and learning opportunities described here are proposals, subject to funding approval and detailed delivery planning. No opening date or course enrolment has been confirmed.

A proposed learning facility at the Mill

At Portview, the proposal would bring approximately 11,000 square feet on the third floor of Block B into use for advanced manufacturing and technology learning. Two classrooms, a practical workshop, learner support facilities and space for tutors and administration are proposed.

The proposed equipment includes robotics, 3D printing, electrical and pneumatic training kits, laser scanning, augmented and virtual reality, and computers. The final equipment and course offer would depend on funding and programme development.

Opening routes into skills and work

The project aims to widen access to technical learning for people in East Belfast and beyond. It would seek to support young people exploring their next steps, unemployed and underemployed adults, and people facing barriers to participation, alongside employees and employers developing technical skills.

The application identifies Fastrack to Information Technology (FIT) as a proposed training delivery partner, drawing on the expertise and curricula of LMETB AMTCE. Courses, eligibility and accreditation would be confirmed as delivery arrangements develop.

Learning across the island

The joint proposal combines the Portview facility with investment in advanced manufacturing, modern methods of construction and sustainable technology equipment and related training at LMETB AMTCE in Dundalk. It aims to support shared expertise and stronger connections between communities, education and industry.

The investment and intended impact

The application seeks £3 million in capital funding for the Portview element, covering renovation, fit-out and equipment. This is the funding requested, rather than an approved award.

The intended benefits include improved access to technical skills, routes towards further learning and employment, and bringing historic Mill space into productive use. These are the project’s ambitions; outcomes would be assessed if the project proceeds.

What happens next

If funding is approved, the partners would progress detailed planning, delivery arrangements, equipment procurement and programme development. Further updates and participation opportunities will be shared when confirmed.