The UK's Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the Royal Navy have initiated a significant £99.5m ($128.9m) construction project at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose in Cornwall, England.
The project focuses on replacing and refurbishing 820 Naval Air Squadron's hangars, associated office buildings, and the site's Engineering Training School (ETS).
Kier Construction has been appointed to carry out the project, with Mott MacDonald providing technical services.
The project will be executed on behalf of the Royal Navy, with the initial phase comprising the construction of the new air ETS, a new hangar, and the refurbishment of existing buildings for the 820 NAS hangars, which are responsible for protecting the navy's aircraft carrier strike groups.
The project encompasses a mix of demolition, new construction within the existing site footprint, and the refurbishment of current infrastructure.
A key aspect of the development is sustainability, with plans to incorporate water-saving measures, achieve net-zero carbon emissions, install solar photovoltaic panels, use energy-efficient lighting, and employ air-source heat pumps to enhance energy efficiency and aid in carbon reduction.
RNAS Culdrose reportedly plays a vital role in the UK's defence strategy, housing the Royal Navy's antisubmarine warfare helicopter fleet, among other features.
The project is expected to reach completion by early 2028.
RNAS Culdrose commanding officer Captain Stuart Irwin said: “This project marks the start of a regeneration and investment in RNAS Culdrose with new, modern facilities. The Engineering Training School is at the heart of our operations to maintain the Merlin helicopter fleet.
“The refurbishment of aircraft hangars and buildings at 820 Naval Air Squadron is another significant investment. It will provide us with more suitable and sustainable places to operate Merlin Helicopter Force now, and into the future.”
In August this year, DIO selected Kier McAvoy, a joint venture, and five other companies for a six-year project to build 16,000 sustainable bed spaces for the UK armed forces' single living accommodation.
