About the Cluster

Cluster development is identified as part of the EU Lisbon Agenda. The European Commission is highly supportive of the cluster approach. It brings together expertise, services, resources, suppliers and skills with the objective of stimulating growth and innovation. Marine clusters can also play a valuable role in marine environmental protection and sustainable development. The importance of cluster development is part of UK Government policy. The central aim of the North Sea Marine Cluster is to develop a collaborative strategy, with emphasis on actions and not just words. The focus will be on activities within the North Sea but application of the collective expertise and skills within the Cluster will also have an EU and international dimension.

The cluster operates a policy of protecting data and personal information in line with data sharing policies and standards set by the Information Commissioner's Office. To view the guidelines we follow regarding data sharing and protection, visit the Information Commissioner's Office website.

 

The North Sea Marine Cluster (NSMC) constitutes a cross-sectoral group focused on supporting regional growth and catalysing a higher profile for marine services and technologies in the region. Current members include Gardline, the Nortfolk County Council, and the University of East Anglia and the cluster will build regional membership among complementary enterprises and organisations that share the aims and objectives of the NSMC.

 

Aim

To strengthen the competitiveness of the regional marine economy by creating and securing business, development and research opportunities which will bring economic, environmental and scientific benefits and to raise the profile of the Region.

Objectives

  • Maintain an open and effective network that brings together the capabilities and strengthens the capacity of the Cluster, facilitating communication among members and providing further scope for co-operation, both within the Cluster and with other relevant players.
  • To operate a watching brief on relevant marine issues, to enable members of the Cluster to influence and prepare for change.
  • To champion the capabilities within the Cluster with a view to creating and securing business, development and research opportunities which will bring Regional economic and scientific benefits and, in doing so, raise the profile of the Region in these areas.
  • To act as a consultation forum and to contribute to regional decision making.
  • To create and secure business, development and research opportunities that will bring economic, environmental and scientific benefits and raise the profile of the region.