The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the Royal Navy have concluded a contract-signing and ground-breaking ceremony for a major construction project at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose in Cornwall.
The ceremonies mark the beginning of work to replace and refurbish the 820 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) Hangars, associated office buildings, and the full replacement of the Engineering Training School (ETS). The contract was awarded to Kier and Mott MacDonald.
The DIO is responsible for delivering the infrastructure in conjunction with contractors and Technical Service Providers on behalf of the Royal Navy, as we work to increase the pace, quality and volume of Defence infrastructure delivery. The project covers a combination of demolition, new build within the same site footprint, and refurbishment of existing infrastructure.
DIO provides expert advice on a range of sustainability issues, and we employ innovate solutions to benefit the Defence estate. As a result, the new and refurbished sites will have sustainability as a key feature, including integrated water-saving measures, Net Zero carbon emissions, solar photovoltaic panels, energy efficient lighting, and air source heat pumps to improve energy efficiency and contribute to carbon reduction.
RNAS Culdrose, the site of this major project, is integral to the UK’s Defence posture. It houses the 820 Naval Air Squadron, whose primary warfighting role is to support Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Airborne Surveillance and Control (ASaC) operations protecting nuclear deterrent capabilities. RNAS Culdrose also houses the Engineering Training School responsible for Air Engineering (AE) specialist training, delivering fully trained engineers to support Merlin helicopter operations.
The infrastructure project is scheduled for delivery to the Royal Navy in the Spring of 2028.
Doug Lloyd, regional director, Kier Construction, said: "We’re delighted to have the opportunity to work with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and the Royal Navy to deliver these new facilities. We have a wealth of experience in delivering buildings of the highest quality across the defence estate and are proud to be creating this important enabler to the UK’s future defence capability. We look forward to working with the DIO and Royal Navy team, and with our local supply chain partners, to design and build these modern sustainable facilities."
