DORSET’S tech sector, which employs almost 24,000 people, is expected to be 70 per cent bigger by 2026.

The forecast comes in a report which says the sector across the South West is expected to generate 125,000 new jobs in the same period.

Research commissioned by the member organisation Tech South West highlights Dorset’s strengths, which include advanced engineering, agricultural technology (agritech), the creative sector, advanced manufacturing and marine technology.

It singles out sites including the Defence Innovation Centre at Dorset Innovation Park, where the Ministry of Defence works with businesses and academic institutions on technology that could have commercial potential.

The innovation park itself is “developing as an advanced engineering cluster of excellence”, the report says, and is home to 25 companies employing nearly 700 people.

The South West Tech Analysis report, by Whitecap Consulting, says tech in the South West will grow to almost £20billion in gross value added by 2026.

In Dorset, the tech sector contributed £1.5bn to the economy as of last year, employing 23,667 people. It is expected to rise some 72 per cent to £2.67bn by 2026.

Dan Pritchard, co-founder of Tech South West, said: “The South West of England’s tech sector is on an upward curve. Not only is this fantastic for the economy and jobs, it’s evidence of the role the region plays globally in tackling climate change.

“With international tech specialisms including climate and environmental science, marine tech, cleantech and agritech, the South West is fast becoming the UK’s natural green powerhouse of tech. It is substantial growth and a huge number of vacancies, which will require a combination of improved productivity and efficiencies, talent, and automation to help us get there.”

Louis Spencer, of NatWest Commercial Banking, South West, one of the organisations supporting the report, said: “We are delighted to support this landmark report showcasing the depth of the region’s technology and digital ecosystem.

“The South West is home to a burgeoning tech economy with leading clusters in cyber, greentech, deeptech and fintech. This report provides a strong platform to share unique insight to stakeholders or founders looking to start, invest or grow a tech business in the region.

“Natwest is delighted to be playing its part to help the sector thrive."

The full report is at techsouthwest.co.uk