£10.8m Defence Logistics Centre completed

PROPERTY and construction specialist Pochin’s, based in the North West, has announced the compl completion of a new purpose-built Defence Logistics Centre in Lancashire.

The 165,000q ft facility has been designed and built for BAE Systems, whose advanced engineering and manufacturing facility sits adjacent to the new £10.8m development.

It will be occupied and operated by logistics specialist Wincanton to provide a logistics service to BAE Systems.

Pochin’s was awarded the contract at the end of 2015 to deliver one of the first major developments within the Lancashire Enterprise Zone, as Wincanton became the first non-BAE Systems business to operate within it. The new facility is expected to accommodate a 150-strong workforce.

Marking the completion, Chris Fenton, managing director, industrial & transport at Wincanton, said: “Managing the logistical demands of BAE’s Military Air & Information business requires a world class team operating in world class facilities.

“The opening of the new Defence Logistics Centre marks the start of an important chapter in our long-standing partnership with BAE Systems, as we continue to deliver services essential to global defence and military aviation.

“Recognising the importance of the project, Pochin’s embraced those significant demands from planning right through to delivery, and our decision to partner with them has been fully rewarded.”

Samlesbury Aerodrome has been at the heart of military aviation in the UK since the 1940s, with the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership currently developing the site as a centre of excellence for advanced engineering & manufacturing.

Pochin’s chief executive Jim Nicholson said: “RAF stations were among Pochin’s first ever construction projects in the North West, and it is testament to the quality of our work that we continue to collaborate with the aviation industry some eight decades later.

“Whether our clients are manufacturing military aircraft or creating quality city centre homes, we’re extremely proud to be able to contribute to their success, which is in turn helping to drive the Northern Powerhouse.”

Steve Burne, managing director at AEW Architects, added: “We have worked with Pochin’s for over 25 years, which has forged a strong relationship and a shared vision for quality. This relationship has been vital to deliver the client’s aspirations on their first purely logistical project for this site. It has been a success from start to finish.”