Ffiws - Maker Space

The project is seeking to set up ‘maker spaces’ in towns in Gwynedd in order to demonstrate the technology and develop a community of makers across the county.

A makerspace is a collaborative work space for making, learning, exploring and sharing that uses high tech to no tech tools. The type of technology available in a maker spaces includes 3D printers, laser cutters and 3D scanners.  

This project is seeking to establish maker spaces in 2 locations in Gwynedd, although some of the equipment will be shared. One of the maker spaces will be mobile and will set up in empty shops for 6 months, while the second will set up in a business park.  

Together with the equipment, the project will provide facilitation support to raise awareness and develop a community of makers that will support continuing activity.

Gwynedd Council has received funding through Arfor project and will be allocated to purchase construction equipment at a cost of £75,000 e.g. 3D Printers, laser cutters, scanners etc.; furniture for the places, and rent for the locations. Gwynedd Rural Innovation will coordinate the project and provide funding for the specialist support.

We propose that the space first manufacturer located in Porthmadog to allow staff to support the project closely over the first 6 months. This will allow the development of systems and processes, awareness raising, and time to develop a community of decision makers in other towns in Gwynedd. After the first 6 months, other areas can apply for the “manufacturer space” through “galw agored” process. 

The second space manufacturer located in business buildings e.g. Industrial Park will aim to provide a facility for small and medium-sized enterprises. Discussions are underway between Gwynedd Council and a business park Nefyn.

The project would complement FabLab in Transition by offering access to entry-level equipment. We would encourage gofod users to visit the space Bridge to develop awareness of the provision of a higher level in Bangor.

This application is for year 1 as we anticipate the level of support is quite high. Application is likely to be submitted for the second phase, but we hope that we will have developed a community of manufacturers by year 2 and the level of support required will be significantly reduced.