Derby set for boost from £975m government aerospace funding

Derby is set to benefit from a huge Government investment in aerospace, the Government has said.

As trailed in the recent Budget speech, thousands of highly-skilled jobs will be supported across the UK after the Prime Minister a £975m investment into the industry over the next five years for this key growth sector.

The move, says the government, will boost aerospace centres in places like Broughton, Filton and Derby after it extended the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “From modern aircraft engines to helicopters, the UK’s aerospace industry is truly world-class.

“The UK is at the forefront of cutting-edge aerospace industry, and by accelerating our investment we will unlock the tech of the future and take a crucial step forward in our mission to deliver growth and opportunity across our country.”

Bidding for the funding will open in January, with projects expected to begin from the Autumn.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “Our world-class aerospace sector added almost £40 billion to the economy last year, supporting high-skilled jobs in every part of the UK.

“Backing the sector with this funding will ensure the UK can continue to pioneer new technologies, all while delivering the economic growth that will be felt in communities across the country.”

Airbus UK chairman John Harrison said: “The commitment of £975m for the aerospace sector over five years offers certainty for long-term sustainable aviation investment and highly skilled jobs, delivering on the UK’s R&D and growth plan and acknowledging Aerospace’s key role in the upcoming Industrial Strategy.”