Time For Strategy to Secure Shipbuilding On The Torridge

Steady pipeline of work needed to stop the boom and bust cycle at Appledore.

Navantia group has completed their takeover of Appledore Shipyard.

GMB Union warns that there must be a steady stream of work at the plant to secure the UK's sovereign manufacturing capabilities.

After the collapse of Harland and Wolff, 250 jobs at the site, and the future of North Devon shipbuilding, hung in the balance.

Appledore Shipyard, and the wider community that relies on it, has suffered from years of uncertainty and several takeover bids in recent memory.

GMB now calls for the government to secure a strategy for the yard's long-term future.

Jake Mclean, GMB Regional Organiser, said:

“Appledore shipyard has been at the heart of the North Devon community for over 150 years and thanks to this buy-out by Navantia its immediate future has been secured.

“GMB Union members are at the heart of this deal, with shipyard workers campaigning to secure its future. From the shop floor to the corridors of Westminster, their voices have been loud and clear.

“What's important now is that we're not in the same situation in a few years' time. The boom and bust that has plagued Appledore over the years can't carry on.

“It is vital the Government work with GMB Union to implement the shipbuilding strategy that helps secure shipbuilding on the River Torridge for the next 150 years.”