Two new major maritime projects worth billions of GBP are set to enable the creation of high-skilled jobs, enable growth and strengthen British shipyards following an announcement made by Chancellor John Healey.
The Chancellor has pledged a ‘new age of industrialisation’ for Britain whilst confirming that the multi-billion GBP projects will be built by British workers, supporting both jobs and a pipeline of small British businesses.
Additionally, Healey has confirmed that the Royal Navy’s submarine service at HM Naval Base Clyde will receive three new floating docks – known as Programme Euston – through a UK-only competition. These new facilities will seek to provide maintenance for the UK’s current and future fleet of nuclear submarines, enabling essential inspections, upgrades and repairs to be carried out as and when necessary.
Elsewhere, funding will also be provided for a new marine research vessel that will be used to protect British seas. Set to enter operation in the early 2030s, the vessel will allow for the continued delivery of core research on British seas and oceans, replacing the current vessel which is nearing the end of its life.
Evidence collected will be used to ensure security of seas, support sustainable fishing and seek to give coastal communities confidence that fish stocks are being managed for the future.
Both of these projects will be delivered by UK companies as part of a focus on how the government spends money to boost national security whilst simultaneously supporting British jobs and growth in local communities.
Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey said:Britain has a proud shipbuilding heritage, and every pound of this strategic investment in a critical sector is backing British jobs on the Clyde and businesses across the UK, supporting growth in every postcode.
By backing British shipyards, we are not only boosting national security but also securing resilience in the industries that will drive growth today while building the capabilities the country needs for the future.
