Mayo Gaeltacht immersive technology studio plan to create 35 jobs
PLANS for a new immersive technology studio in Belmullet will create up to 35 highly skilled new jobs.
Údarás na Gaeltachta have submitted plans for the facility to Mayo County Council for approval.
The success of its gteic digitial hubs in Mayo, including one in Béal an Mhuirthead, along with expansion of the creative industries and immersive technology sectors in the west region requires Údarás to move to the next stage of developing specialised technology facilities in Mayo.
A significant number of companies have approached them seeking these specialised facilities, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR) and advanced 3D visualisation spaces.
They explained in their submission to planners how these innovative and evolving companies want access to cutting-edge facilities, including AV/AR development labs, motion capture studios, 3D scanning and printing capabilities, and collaborative mixed reality spaces to develop their products and solutions.
The proposed studio will be strategically located to complement to existing gteic network while providing unique specialised services that will position the Gaeltacht region as a leader in immersive technology development.
Expressions of interest have come in from companies working in various areas, from cultural heritage preservation and digitisation, to streaming and content creation, educational technology, tourism and cultural experiences along with gaming and entertainment.
It is anticipated that the studio and gteic would facilitate companies working in industrial training and visualisation, healthcare simulation and training, and the construction sector.
The submission added: “With the specialised facilities planned, we foresee the creation of up to 35 high-skilled technology positions, with particular emphasis on preserving and promoting Irish language and Gaeltacht culture through innovative digital mediums.
“The immersive technology studio represents a unique opportunity to blend cutting-edge technology with cultural preservation, creating new pathways for young people to engage with Irish language content and Gaeltacht traditions through immersive experiences.”