BAE site gets £20m revamp

A MAJOR modernisation scheme is underway at a 5.7 hectare munitions factory at Radway Green in Crewe.

Defence giant BAE Systems has awarded the £20m contract to Shepherd Construction.

Work on the project has just started and will involve demolishing the existing building and replacing it with a new factory complete with indoor firing range, welfare and administration facilities, including a staff restaurant and car park.

The new factory, which will manufacture small arms ammunition for British troops, is one of three manufacturing sites that BAE  is revamping. It is scheduled for completion in May 2011.

Charlie Blakemore, managing director of BAE Systems’ munitions business, said: “This is a strategic investment for BAE and the Ministry of Defence and the new facility will be a world leader.”

Peter Millett, managing director for Shepherd Construction in the North West, said: “We are delighted to have started work on-site. During the build, the project will require specialist construction of the ammunition propellant storage facilities and production areas to incorporate explosive and bullet-proof design elements.”