Planning Permission Secured for New Hydrogen Propulsion Lab at University of Nottingham

Planning permission has been secured for the construction of a new state-of-the-art hydrogen propulsion lab for the University of Nottingham on its Jubilee Campus, in partnership with Research England and industry partners.

YMD Boon is proud to act as the architect, lead designer and principal designer (building regulations) for this facility, which will advance research in sustainable transport technologies and play a key role in shaping the future of zero-carbon propulsion. Our involvement has been extensive, developing this project from concept and dedicating many hours to stakeholder engagement with university professionals to refine and define the project’s objectives.

With a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation, we have developed a facility that meets the complex requirements of hydrogen research while prioritising safety and efficiency. Strategically integrated with the adjacent Power Electronics and Machines Centre (PEMC), the Hydrogen Propulsion Lab will provide an advanced environment for high-power propulsion system testing.

The lab will feature cutting-edge cryogenic test capabilities, environmental chambers for altitude simulation, and testing areas for gaseous hydrogen, ammonia, and other green fuels. These capabilities will enable the university’s world-leading researchers to push the boundaries of propulsion technology in a controlled and secure setting, supporting industries such as aerospace, automotive, marine, and power generation in their transition to clean energy solutions.

The Hydrogen Propulsion Lab is part of a wider initiative to establish Jubilee Campus as a hub for zero-carbon innovation. In parallel, the university is launching a new Zero Carbon Innovation Centre, funded by East Midlands Freeport in partnership with Loughborough University. Together, these facilities will position the East Midlands as a leader in green technology and sustainable economic growth.

Shari Setayesh, Director of YMD Boon, said: “We are thrilled to be leading the design of this groundbreaking facility, which will drive innovation in sustainable propulsion technologies. Collaborating closely with the University of Nottingham and key stakeholders, we are creating a space that not only meets the complex demands of hydrogen research but also supports the transition to a cleaner, greener future. We are proud to continue our partnership with the University and look forward to the development of this project.”

Professor Chris Gerada, Professor of Electrical Machines and lead for strategic research and innovation initiatives at the University of Nottingham, said: “A new hydrogen lab for the East Midlands is a leap forward in establishing the region’s leadership in zero carbon innovation on the world stage. It is this region that has the right place, the right people, and the right technologies that industries need to achieve their decarbonisation ambitions.”

With construction set to be completed by mid-2026, the Hydrogen Propulsion Lab will soon stand as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and progress in the field of clean propulsion. The facility is designed in collaboration with Turner and Townsend, GF Tomlinson, CPW, Derry Building Services, and Price & Myers.

For further information about our role in this project, please contact us directly.