Work begins on aerospace facility

The project will form a key part of GKN Aerospace-Filton as it aims to become an international centre of excellence in composite aircraft wing structures and ensures the long term future of operations.

The expansion is expected to create 250 jobs over the next 10 years in the forefront of technological developments in aerospace.

The new site, which will be known as Filton-West, will be managed by the recently acquired Airbus Filton wing component and assemblies manufacturing unit.

I must acknowledge that our success in reaching this landmark day is in good measure due to the strong and consistent support of both BERR and SWERDA

Marcus Bryson

Chief Executive

GKN Aerospace

Filton-West will be home to a high-tech manufacturing operation which will incorporate production techniques that represent the future of composites manufacture in aviation.

Production at the new plant will begin in January 2010, making wing spars and trailing edge assemblies for the Airbus A350 XWB aircraft.

GKN Aerospace chief executive Marcus Bryson said: "We are beginning our work to fulfil the commitments we made to extend the capacity and the skills base of our Bristol operation. And I must acknowledge that our success in reaching this landmark day is in good measure due to the strong and consistent support of both BERR (the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform) and SWERDA (South West of England Regional Development Agency).”

The facility will enable work on the A350 to begin at the same time as completing work for its extended customer base.

Mr Bryson said that the GKN Aerospace investment in the facilities at Bristol will allow the company to support a wide range of customers and take advantage of the global wing structures market.

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