We have all been on tenterhooks waiting for something to happen says GMB shipbuilder
GMB, the shipbuilding union, says early indications of a deal to re-open Appledore shipyard, mothballed for 16 months, would be great news for the community.
Although details are scarce, it is understood a deal in principle has now finally been struck for Appledore Shipyard in North Devon – although it is not yet clear which consortium has been successful.
There will now be a 60-day grace period while final terms are settled.
Ross Murdoch, GMB National Officer and CSEU National Chair, said:
“GMB and sister CSEU trade unions have worked round the clock to make sure this famous shipyard was not consigned to the scrapheap.
“But UK shipbuilding is still on the brink. The Tories must stop their ridiculous plan to build the next wave of Royal Navy support ships overseas and let them be built in UK yards instead.”
Jake Mclean, Appledore Shipbuilder, said:
“All the shipyard workers and their families have all been on tenterhooks waiting for something to happen. “This is great news for the whole community, who have had a torrid time of late.”
"We cannot wait to get back to building ships again.”
