BAE to Invest in Glasgow Shipyards

BAE Systems has announced it is to retain both of its shipyards in Glasgow and make its most significant investment in them for decades.

The company will invest £100 million in improving and expanding manufacturing facilities at the Govan and Scotstoun yards.

It announced its decision following a review of options for the future.

The other option under consideration had been a £200 million single-site strategy involved building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Scotstoun, placing the future of the Govan yard in doubt.

The company last year lodged planning applications for both proposals, neither of which was expected to lead to job losses.

A BAE Systems spokesman said: "Following an assessment of potential facilities options, we have decided to retain and invest in both of our sites in Glasgow.

"We will work closely with our trade unions as we prepare the detailed designs to improve and expand our manufacturing facilities, which will mark the most significant investment in the Glasgow shipyards in decades.

"Together with investments in new technologies, cutting-edge processes and new ways of working, improved infrastructure will play a key role in transforming the way we design and build complex warships.

"This will enable us to create a modern, safe and inspiring workplace for our employees whilst ensuring we deliver equipment to the highest quality at the lowest possible cost so we can compete effectively for future UK and international orders.''