BAM breaks ground on new UK hub for clean maritime innovation in Devon
BAM breaks ground on new UK hub for clean maritime innovation in Devon
BAM has officially started construction of the new Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre, a landmark facility set to boost sustainable maritime technology and innovation.
Working in close partnership with Torridge District Council, BAM has helped finalise the design of the Centre, which will provide workshops and office spaces with direct access to the Taw-
Torridge Estuary, enabling businesses to move fluidly between the building and the water.
The centre will provide research and development space to develop clean maritime innovations, which reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimise the environmental impact of maritime activities, in line with the Department for Transport's 2025 Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy.
Enabling works began in April, with the early phase involving the construction of a new quay to enhance access to the estuary for future users of the facility, with the new Centre set for completion in 2026.
BAM is committed to maximising local benefit throughout the project. A ‘Meet the Buyer’ event held in Appledore last October helped connect the project team with local suppliers and contractors. Several have already joined the supply chain, and BAM continues to engage with businesses in the area to ensure further opportunities remain open throughout the build.
Andy Syddall, Construction Manager, BAM Construction, said:
"This is more than a construction project - it's about creating opportunities that last well beyond the build. Throughout the project, BAM will generate an additional £2 million in local social economic value through working with local businesses, supporting apprenticeships and employment opportunities, and engaging with local schools and charities. We're delighted to be working with Torridge District Council to bring this vision to life and help deliver long-term investment, skills and innovation to the South West."
Councillor Ken James, Leader of Torridge District Council, said:
"This is a very exciting step in the journey of this project, not just for Appledore, but for the wider district. We hope that the delivery of this centre will put Appledore and Torridge at the forefront of innovation and investment in clean maritime energy. By getting as many local trades people involved in the build as possible, we hope that this will be just the start of future job creation and investment in the area."
The Centre has been partly funded through the Levelling Up Fund, Community Regeneration Partnership and funding from the UK Government as part of the Devon and Torbay Devolution Deal, managed by Devon County Council.
