REIDsteel has won planning permission for a major redevelopment of its site in Christchurch.
The redevelopment of the REIDsteel site and adjacent land formerly occupied by Peeks Party Store will deliver a 6.4-acre manufacturing base and boost the company’s capability.
Managing director at John Reid & Sons, Simon Boyd, said: “This is absolutely brilliant news for REIDsteel, the local economy and GB plc.
“It is a milestone in the long history of the company, which has gained a worldwide reputation for high quality British engineering, design and manufacturing.
“It will allow us to significantly increase productivity, create more highly-skilled employment and apprenticeships, and boost the local economy while cutting our carbon footprint.
“In addition, the major new facility will enhance our ability within both the domestic and export markets.
“Our thanks go to BCP Council and their planning team for their support throughout the process. They have worked with our planning consultants and architects to achieve a well-balanced development which will contribute significantly to the local community.
“All those involved with the planning process had the vision required to understand the importance of delivering a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility on a key site in Christchurch for the long-term growth of our company. Furthermore, they recognised the positive effect it will have on our local community which I also thank for their support.”
REIDsteel’s portfolio includes aircraft hangars, bridges, sports stadia, and industrial and commercial buildings across the UK, Europe and the world, including cladding and glazing, alongside its Special Projects – which include hurricane and earthquake resistant structures, car parks, defence structures, water treatment plants, the power sector, infrastructure, specialist bridges and bespoke designs.
Founded in 1919, the company has exported to more than 140 countries to date.
Simon added: “Our people are our company, where every one of our 130 employees is a valued team member; together we are One Team.
“This is a very welcome decision and is essential to our drive for continuous improvement, and not just for manufacturing but for our people who are at the core of everything we do. It is a landmark moment as we look forward to an exciting future.”
REIDsteel has gained full planning permission for the multi-million-pound-redevelopment, which will include a production yard, staff parking accessed from Mill Road, environmental improvements and landscaping. It will also include rooftop solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.
Multiple manufacturing processes will be brought into a single, automated production line with technology from concept to delivery under one roof.
REIDsteel is now working through the next steps of the major scheme. It will continue with current operations on the site throughout the redevelopment process.
The company is a Platinum Business Partner with Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It continues to be active with Bournemouth University on the development of new technology and maintains links with local schools for work experience.
It has signed the UN’s Race to Zero pledge and is working towards the gold standard of the BCSA’s Sustainability Charter. REIDsteel was the first contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter with UK Steel in support for British manufacturing.
It is a member of the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).