BAE Systems has appointed Costain, Shepherd and Morgan Sindall as the framework contractors who will work alongside it to deliver the £300m-plus redevelopment of its submarine site in Barrow-in-Furness.
The three have been awarded framework contracts, under which they will compete with each other on a mini-tender basis to complete the design and build of the individual projects that make up the overall programme.
Expected to employ approximately 850 contractors at its peak, this major eight-year programme will completely transform BAE Systems’ submarine building capabilities - readying it to deliver a replacement for the UK Royal Navy's Vanguard class submarines.
It will include a mix of new build projects and the refurbishment of existing facilities in what is the most significant redevelopment of the site since the 1980s.
Tony Johns, Managing Director of BAE Systems Submarines, said: "We are delighted to have three companies of the calibre and track-record of Costain, Shepherd and Morgan Sindall working alongside us to deliver this major programme.
"The design and build of a nuclear powered submarine is one of the most complex challenges known to man. As such, it's crucial we have cutting edge, state-of-the-art facilities to enable us to deliver these world-class submarines, which are so vital to our nation's defences."
BAE Systems is the UK's only designer and builder of nuclear powered submarines. It is currently building the Astute class - the UK Royal Navy's largest and most powerful attack submarine - as well as designing a replacement for the nuclear deterrent carrying Vanguard class.
Andrew Parker, Director of Defence at Morgan Sindall said: “Morgan Sindall is proud to have achieved a place on this framework and we’re excited by the opportunities it presents. We will be looking to ensure that the local companies and people benefit from our appointment. We look forward to working collaboratively with BAE Systems and making a real difference.”
Andrew Wyllie, Chief Executive of Costain, said: “We have been selected for our expertise in the process, mechanical and electrical delivery of nuclear projects, as well as our reputation for working collaboratively with our customers, other delivery partners and the local community. We are looking forward to a long term and successful relationship with BAE Systems, a major new customer for us.”
Mark Perkins, Chief Executive of Shepherd, commented: “Being appointed to this much sought after framework reflects our ability to create, engineer and manage world-class environments through our integrated offer. By working closely with our project partners we are committed to ensuring the tangible benefits of this major infrastructure investment are felt by the wider Barrow community now and in the future.”
The first major project to go to tender under the framework arrangements will be for the design and construction of the Central Yard Complex - one of the two new facilities to be built on land that has been cleared following extensive demolition activity. It is here that major submarine equipment modules will be integrated into sections of pressure hull.