Technology, business and political leaders gathered at Imperial West to launch the London Node of a major European ICT innovation network this week.

The European Institute of Innovation & Technology’s (EIT) ICT Labs London will enable university and industry researchers to collaborate and create the next generation of smart city infrastructure.

Start-ups, spin-outs and established businesses will co-locate with academic experts at Imperial West as they exploit cloud computing, cyber-physical systems and other ICT innovations to improve health and wellbeing, urban life and mobility, develop smart energy solutions and more.

The London Node is led by Imperial, UCL, Intel and BT, with further support from Vodafone, IBM, the University of Edinburgh and Institute of Sustainability. 

Speaking at the event, Deputy Mayor of London Kit Malthouse said: “The rate of technological acceleration in London has never been faster, and it is critical that we establish this centre to take advantage of that process.

“We are a rapidly growing city, and we must learn to reengineer and rationalise the strains created by this growth. We can use ICT to solve problems – and commercialise them – creating wealth. 

“The UK has been great at inventions, but not good enough at commercialising them. Establishments like this in the heart of Imperial’s new campus, with a focus on commercialisation, are very welcome. Science and technology will create many jobs for London over the coming years.” 

A region of innovation

Paul Jenkins, Founding Director of the London Node, said: “The EIT ICT Labs form part of the exciting vision for what White City and Imperial West will become: a region of innovation.”

Mr Jenkins, who is set to return to BT as Head of Collaborative Research, also introduced the new Director of the London Node, Dennis Moynihan.

Dennis Moynihan, new Director of the London Node

Until this appointment Mr Moynihan worked with the Institute for Sustainability, collaborating with the Smart London Board, EIT Climate-KIC and other partners in shaping and delivering a range of “smart city” innovation projects.

Willem Jonker, Chief Executive of EIT ICT Labs, said: “London will be a key part of the Europe-wide EIT ICT Labs ecosystem. This is not just a project, but a long-term strategic investment. We are addressing Europe’s challenge of translating our excellent education and research, to turn it into economic value.

“The London Node will support innovation throughout Europe for economic growth and to improve quality of life.”