Local civil engineering and manufacturing firm Blanchard Wells has launched the first phase of the ambitious Daedalus Waterfront redevelopment with a major investment in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Located adjacent to the airfield in the newly named Sir Douglas Evill Enterprise Zone, the facility will create up to 200 new jobs, including apprenticeships in partnership with the award-winning Civil Engineering Training Centre (CETC).
Celebrating 25 years in business, Blanchard Wells will use its new headquarters to manufacture precast concrete elements using reduced-carbon technology, placing them at the forefront of sustainable construction in the South. Plans also include a future Construction Hub to unite industry professionals and support local start-ups.
This marks a key milestone for Daedalus Waterfront, which aims to revive the historic HMS Daedalus site by creating employment, restoring heritage buildings, and supporting attractions like the Hovercraft Museum. The new facility is expected to be operational by early 2027 and is a crucial step in turning Daedalus Waterfront into a thriving hub of innovation, industry, and community pride.
