News

Bro Tathan Planning Update - October 2023

Pre-Application Consultation has commenced for “The redevelopment of land formerly comprising ‘east camp’ for the demolition of existing structures and the erection of up to 285,000 sq m of employment and air-side operational facilities (within Class B1b and/or B1c and/or B2) and associated earthworks, access, drainage, servicing, utilities connections/infrastructure and landscaping.” (https://www.carneysweeney.co.uk/consultations/outline-application-for-the-redevelopment-of-land-formerly-comprising-for-employment-use.html). Parties are invited to provide any pre-application consultation response on the proposed development to CarneySweeney by 27th November 2023.

Bro Tathan Planning Update - July/August 2023

Pre-Application Consultation has commenced for the Demolition of Buildings/Structure and Erection of Two New Bat Houses at Bro Tathan East, St Athan, Vale of Glamorgan. (https://www.carneysweeney.co.uk/consultations/demolition-of-buildings-structures-and-erection-of-two-new-bat-houses-at-bro-tathan-east-st-athan-vale-of-glamorgan.html). Parties are invited to provide any pre-application consultation response on the proposed development to CarneySweeney by 10th September 2023.

Pre-Application Consultation has commenced for the Application by Welsh Minister for the Provision of Above and Below Ground Utilites, Associated Infrastructure and Reprofiling of Land at Bro Tathan, St Athan, Vale of Glamorgan. (https://www.carneysweeney.co.uk/consultations/application-by-welsh-ministers-for-the-provision-of-above-and-below-ground-utilities-associated-infrastructure-and-reprofiling-of-land-at-bro-tathan-st-athan-vale-of-glamorgan.html). Parties are invited to provide any pre-application consultation response on the proposed development to CarneySweeney by 14th September 2023.

Planning Application (ref: 2023/00780/FUL) for the demolition of existing buildings/structures and erection of a Class B8 data centre with all associated back-up generators, plant, equipment, sub-stations, accesses, parking and servicing areas, drainage and engineering works including services diversion/connection and regrading works was submitted in July 2023 by Vantage Data Centres.

Bro Tathan welcomes two new tenants: Aerodyne and Argo.

Aerodyne have recently joined the site at Bro Tathan. Aerodyne specialises in producing and innovating high quality, affordable flying vehicles, which are safe and secure to use, and accessible to all. Over the last 15 years, Aerodyne has sold more than 1,300 aircraft into twenty two countries, throughout North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Argo Mobile Repair Team are leading global specialists in composite and metallic structures, supporting OEM’s, lessor’s and operator’s structural requirements with industry leading technology and expertise.

Press Release 17 July 2023

High-tech American engineering firm expands in Wales with UK-based Subsidiary Facility to support USA capabilities to UK MOD.

Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission Systems UK, LTD. (SNC MS UK), a subsidiary of a leading American advanced engineering firm, is expanding its presence in Wales by establishing a new Centre of Excellence in the Vale of Glamorgan, which will create more than 75 new jobs and 200 indirect positions, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething has confirmed today.

This significant growth not only supports the company’s commitment to creating niche technologies in the aerospace sector, it also supports the UK Social Values and Prosperity Agenda, creating partnerships to encourage innovation and facilitate technological and economic growth within the UK and the global economy.

The Welsh Government has supported the company’s move to establish a significant presence in Wales.

 Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething said:

“The Welsh Government is working to develop the industries of the future here in Wales, which will create good, well-paid new jobs for people across the country. I’m delighted the Welsh Government has been able to attract one of the USA’s fastest growing companies to Wales. As a blue-chip company in future technology, SNC MS UK will create 100 high-tech, well-paid jobs at Bro Tathan, which will be a major boost to the local economy in the Vale of Glamorgan. I’m particularly pleased the company has committed to employing service veterans, which allows them to utilise their considerable knowledge, skills and networks.

SNC MS UK joins a growing list of companies based at Bro Tathan with more than 1,000 people now employed at the Welsh Government-owned airfield.

Hywel Baker, Managing Director of SNC MS UK said:

 “We are excited to offer our customers increased performance and access to previously unavailable capabilities with our new Centre of Excellence. SNC MS UK is dedicated to shaping the sector’s future and driving its growth. We are committed to creating highly skilled jobs and providing employees with training and leadership through a parent organisation with a proven heritage and continued success in this industry. We are thrilled to invest in this site and to regenerate existing infrastructure to create a modern and fully capable environment that delivers best-of-breed technology in support of the UK’s Leveling Up campaign. In addition to bringing state-of-the-art defence capabilities, this renovation enables the revitalization of the St Athan area to attract other businesses that will multiply economic impact and indirect job creation, encourage continued innovation and help deepen the skills base of our local population.”

Since 1938, South Wales has been a major centre for aerospace and defence. During the Second World War, the RAF St Athan station housed more than 14,000 personnel and successfully diverted enemy attacks by building a dummy airfield out of used wood and cardboard. With a long history of allied support, SNC MS UK’s facilities have found new life providing state-of-the-art areas for research and development and equipment for test, evaluation and capability integration – including hardware and software.

SNC MS UK leverages advanced technology from its parent company, SNC, a global leader in the aerospace and defence sector. Other partners contribute by enabling enhanced connectivity for multi-domain operations, interoperability and reach-back for joint all-domain command and control (JADC2).

SNC MS UK employs experts in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) in an effort to create the development of new solutions to critical defence and security problems. The company also partners with local universities to support academic research in the most current technological fields.

Press Release 15 June 2023

Welsh Government donates fire truck to Ukraine’s Kharkiv Airport following appeal

Wales is donating a specialised airport fire truck to Kharkiv Airport in Ukraine in response to an appeal following a missile attack which left the airport’s original fire truck damaged beyond repair.

Following Russia’s illegal and unprovoked military aggression against Ukraine, Kharkiv Airport was forced to halt its operations in February 2022. In April 2022, the airport was struck by a missile attack which rendered one of its fire trucks damaged beyond repair.

As the city and oblast rebuilds and recovers from the destruction caused by the conflict, in February 2023, the airport asked its international allies for assistance in replacing its damaged fire truck. Following a capital asset renewal programme, Bro Tathan airfield contains a surplus of fire trucks and following discussions with the supplier of these specialist airfield vehicles, the surplus vehicle at Bro Tathan meets the needs of Kharkiv Airport.

Economy Minister Vaughan Gething has authorised the donation on behalf of the Welsh Government.

Announcing the donation at St Athan Airfield, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said: “I’m proud that Wales is able to play it’s part and stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and of the welcome so many have offered to those fleeing war. Our friends at Kharkiv Airport have asked for help and I am pleased that we are able to assist with this donation. This replacement fire truck will enable the airport to continue to serve the community and assist in the reconstruction and recovery of the city of Kharkiv. The fire truck will be transported to Kharkiv Airport through support from the UK Ministry of Defence.”

Press Release 7 October 2022

ZeroAlpha Solutions wins Green Business of the Year

The winners of the inaugural Vale of Glamorgan Business Awards were announced on Thursday 6th October at a glamorous black-tie awards ceremony at the Vale Resort.

The awards were launched this year in a bid to recognise the inspiring businesses that are in the Vale and to give recognition to the passionate and innovative entrepreneurs who work in the Vale of Glamorgan County.

Bro Tathan tenant, ZeroAlpha Solutions won the award for Green Business of the Year.

Press Release 26 September 2022

ZeroAlpha Solutions awarded NATO Contract

ZeroAlpha Solutions Ltd have recently announced the award of a 5-year framework contract with NATO through NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). Totalling a maximum budget of €24.2million, the contract covers the supply of a wide-ranging fleet of tactical energy systems that specifically covers Dismounted Users, Military Vehicle Systems, Small HQs and Larger HQ systems.

The contract is accessible to all member states of the NATO Alliance. These systems will provide NATO’s tactical users with a more efficient energy eco-system to support early entry operations using various Methanol Fuel Cells, Solar, Stored Energy and Power Generation and Management Systems.

The award cements ZeroAlpha’s position as one of the world’s leading providers of military hybrid energy systems to the international market across the full spectrum of user groups and formation sizes.

News 9 September 2022

Hydrogen Research Centre to be set up by Cardiff University at Bro Tathan

Cardiff University are setting up a Hydrogen Electric Propulsion Research Centre at St Athan.

The aim of the Centre is to develop a scalable technology demonstrator to prove the concept of a hydrogen electric hybrid propulsion system. The project integrates two novel advanced battery and hydrogen fuel cell systems on a single platform to overcome the main barriers faced by the industry and test its performance capabilities on a regional scale flying testbed. The project is partially funded by eight industrial partners, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and Welsh Government.

News Article   13 July 2022

Aviation Business to Create Jobs After Landing Investment

A Glamorgan-based aviation business, which is owned by Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson, is set to create 100 jobs following a £4m investment from independent asset manager BOOST&Co.

Founded in 2012, Caerdav provides aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), consultancy and pilot training services to large carriers, aircraft leasing companies and private clients.

The business will use the funding to expand upon its current record order book and strong new business pipeline, fulfilling the backlog of aircraft servicing requirements carried across from the Covid-19 pandemic. BOOST&Co has chosen to work with Caerdav due to its strong and highly-experienced executive management team who, since their appointment in early 2019, have been responsible for an acceleration in the company’s growth and development.

Caerdav specialises in the Boeing 737, 757, 767 and Airbus A320 families of planes and holds all necessary approvals, enabling the business to provide services to all relevant major target economies. The business is based in a 134,000 sq ft hangar complex in Wales, including a 6,000 ft runway, which is one of the highest specification maintenance facilities of its kind in civilian use.

Kim Martin, head of south and Midlands at BOOST&Co, said: "We are thrilled that Bruce and the executive team selected us to be the chosen funding partner to Caerdav. Their commitment to the business and the local community has been unwavering in recent years and we are confident this funding enables the business to capitalise on the current market opportunity and deliver exciting growth plans. Caerdav is one of the last independent MRO’s in the UK and it is vital to nurture and preserve this skillset, as the airline industry continues its post-Covid recovery."

Joachim Jones, chief executive at Caerdav, added: "We have been on a continued upwards trajectory during the past year and this latest investment is only set to accelerate our growth plans further. The airline industry has had to show tremendous resilience during and following the Covid-19 pandemic and its recovery will only be as strong as the support it receives, which Caerdav is in a fantastic position to provide."

Due diligence for this deal was provided by Azets. Lee Humble, corporate finance partner at Azets, said: "We are delighted to have advised BOOST&Co on its funding of Caerdav. The investment will support a key supplier to the aviation industry and support an expansion project that will bring significant benefits to the business and all of its stakeholders. It was a pleasure working with BOOST&Co and the Caerdav team and we wish them all the best for the future.”

Caerdav was advised on this deal by WH Ireland. Phillip Wale, chief executive at WH Ireland, said: "We are delighted to have secured funding for Caerdav to help fulfill their future ambitions and to have had the opportunity to work again with BOOST&Co. We look forward to supporting Caerdav’s continued growth and success."

News Article   1 July 2022

SNC Mission Systems UK Unveil Plans for Facility Expansions Creating UAS Center of Excellence for capabilities to U.K. MOD

Sierra Nevada Corporation Mission Systems UK, LTD. (SNC MS UK) recently announced plans to expand, upgrade and modernise its facilities in St Athan, South Wales. The expansion brings SNC MS UK’s facility footprint to more than 50,000 square feet, allowing the company to complete multiple full-scale design, integration and test projects for autonomous systems.

“We have invested in new facilities and regeneration of existing buildings to create a modern and fully capable environment to deliver best-of-breed technology to defence,” said SNC MS UK’s Managing Director Hywel Baker. “SNC MS UK is dedicated to shaping the sector’s future, creating new jobs, and driving its growth. We are committed to creating highly skilled jobs and providing those employees with training support and leadership through a parent organisation with a proven heritage and continued success in this industry.”

Since 1938, St Athan Enterprise Zone in South Wales has been a major centre for aerospace and defence. SNC MS UK’s facilities will provide state-of-the-art areas for research and development and equipment for test, evaluation and capability integration – including hardware and software.

“We are pleased to offer our existing and new customers increased performance and access to previously unavailable capability with our new Center of Excellence,” said Baker.

SNC MS UK will leverage advanced technology from its parent company Sierra Nevada Corporation, a global leader in the aerospace and defence sector, and other partners to enable enhanced connectivity for multi-domain operations, interoperability and reachback to the U.S. for Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2). SNC MS UK employs experts in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) in an effort to support new technology and solutions to critical defence and security problems. The company is also partnering with local universities to support academic research in the most current technological fields.

For more information, visit www.sncmsuk.com.

News Article   29 June 2022

eCube celebrates prestigious Diamond Aircraft Disassembly status from AFRA

eCube has satisfied the requirements for accreditation under the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association’s Best Management Practices and becomes the first AFRA aircraft disassembler in Europe to achieve Diamond level status for Aircraft Disassembly.

After successfully achieving AFRA recertification earlier this year, the recent Diamond level status sees eCube continue to 'Raise expectations' and has delighted CEO Lee McConnellogue.

Lee said: "An absolutely fantastic achievement by the team. The aviation sector is front and centre in the global sustainability challenge. Our industry continuously moves towards its net-zero carbon emissions pledge of 2050. This is in support of the 2015 Paris Agreement goal for global warming not to exceed 1.5degC.

"Aircraft disassembly and the circular economy it creates can make a significant contribution to this pledge. That’s why being recognised by AFRA who represent companies from around the globe and throughout the supply chain as the Diamond standard in aircraft disassembly is a huge honour.

"Well done team and great to catch up with lead auditor for Europe Nigel at the recent AFRA convention."

News Article   16 May 2022

Ryanair enters winter maintenance agreement with Caerdav

Ryanair has entered a new winter maintenance agreement with Caerdav, which will involve the airline undertaking two lines of heavy maintenance with Caerdav at its maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility Bro Tathan.

The agreement will ensure that the airline has flexibility as to where it places its growing aircraft fleet for upcoming winter maintenance season. Ryanair uses a mix of internal facilities and external suppliers to conduct its heavy maintenance.

Founded in 2012, Caerdav is a MRO and pilot training company based at Bro Tathan.

Ryanair director of operations Neal McMahon said: "Our five-year growth plan will grow our fleet to over 600 aircraft and we are pleased to announce this agreement with Caerdav to conduct maintenance at their modern MRO facility in Cardiff this winter.

"This agreement will allow Ryanair to utilise two heavy maintenance slots, with aircraft coming in nose to tail for the upcoming winter season. Caerdav has an excellent reputation for a quality service offering in the industry and we are pleased to be announcing this new deal, which will ensure that Ryanair has flexibility as to where it places its aircraft for the winter maintenance season."

Richard Pitts-Robinson, head of commercial at Caerdav, added: "As a team we take great pride in offering our customers a world-leading service, and to be able to demonstrate this to an airline the size of Ryanair is very exciting indeed – we’re looking forward to welcoming the first aircraft into St. Athan."

News Article   31 March 2022

NSPA selects ZeroAlpha Solutions to deliver clean and renewable tactical energy solutions

ZeroAlpha Solutions (ZeroAlpha) announces that the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has awarded the company a 5-year framework contract to supply an extensive range of Military Hybrid Power Systems to deliver clean and renewable energy solutions for its tactical users.

The procurement was led by the UK to establish technical requirements and demanding end user training. The framework contract will enable the 30 NATO member countries and its partners to purchase ZeroAlpha’s market leading solutions, based around Methanol Fuel Cells, Solar Panels, Radio Power Adaptors and Battery Systems with associated accessories.

As the leading specialists in expeditionary energy solutions ZeroAlpha’s understanding of the full range of operational requirements of NATO forces, led to the design of a multi-level approach to energy provision and sustainment addressing equally, soldier and vehicle systems as well as small and large systems to support various levels of field Headquarters.

Commenting on this award, Stewart Burton, Managing Director at ZeroAlpha, said:

“We are honoured to be awarded this hugely significant contract from the NSPA and look forward to supporting the NATO community with its tactical energy requirements moving forward.  For NATO to recognise both the environmental and operational benefits of our systems demonstrate our collective approach to address climate change, while also providing troops with the best equipment available to deliver their military objectives.

News Article   21 November 2021

Bro Tathan shortlisted at the APM Project Management Awards 2021

In the recent APM Project Management Awards, project organisations, individuals and projects from a broad range of sectors across the globe were recognised and celebrated for their incredible achievements over the past year.

Bro Tathan was shortlisted for the Transformation Project of the Year 2021 , an award designed to recognise project excellence, both in delivery and outcomes.

Whilst ultimately unsuccessful in winning the category, Bro Tathan was shortlisted in esteemed company with the MOD and PA Consulting, NATS and BAE Systems.

Welsh Government and the wider project team are immensely proud of the outcomes and legacies which continue at Bro Tathan.

News Article   5 November 2021

Rubb Hangar completes at Keithrow

Rubb Buildings, a world leader in the design and manufacture of custom made relocatable engineered fabric structures, has recently completed a new MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) hangar at Bro Tathan, Welsh Government’s 1,200 acre business park in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Rubb’s 50m (wide) x 50m (long) x 8m (sidewall height) hangar, with an apex height of 18.5m, is capable of housing aircraft such as Boeing B737-800s and will be used as a compliant Part 145 MRO operational hub and is available for short term occupation whilst the occupier builds more permanent facilities on Keithrow.

The Rubb hangar specification includes:

• Steel frame structure with 150mm Thermohall insulated PV fabric cladding.

• Climate controlled facility adjustable to suit usage and operations.

• Goosewing grey exterior and white interior.

• Vertical lifting fabric Megadoor entry system with a clear width of 42m and overall clear height of 13.5m.

• Suitable for the storage, maintenance, repair and overhaul of large fixed wing aircraft such as Boeing 737 and an Airbus A320.

For further information on the Rubb hangar, please contact Chloe Beard at chloe.beard@savills.com or +44 (0) 7971 358 941.

Press Release   8 October 2020

Last of the British Airways 747s lands at Bro Tathan

Today sees the final BA 747 land at the commercial airfield at Bro Tathan, the Welsh Government’s 1,200 acres business park in the Vale of Glamorgan - to be recycled and utilised for spares by eCube Solutions.

One of the final two 747s to leave from Heathrow this morning, its retirement brought forward several years as a consequence of the pandemic, the aircraft will now be utilised at eCube Solutions, the leading aircraft disassembly and end of life services provider based on the business park.

The last 747 was the first aircraft to utilise the newly introduced Instrument Landing System (ILS) at Bro Tathan after introducing the airspace changes at the Welsh Government site, operated on its behalf by Cardiff International Airport.

eCube Solutions Managing Director Peter Dunsford said: “eCube Solutions is delighted to have received the very last British Airways 747-400 aircraft to be flown from its London Heathrow base and home of over 20 years. This is a truly iconic aircraft which has a lot of very loyal followers with fond memories and attachments to the aircraft type – and many to this actual aircraft. As Europe’s leading provider for aircraft end of life services including component removal, disassembly and recycling, we strive to provide both airlines and aircraft owners with maximise value from a retired aircraft. We can assure everybody that this aircraft is highly recyclable and will continue to be utilised in many different ways for many, many years to come.”

eCube Solutions is a leading provider of storage, disassembly and parts re-use and recycling services to global aircraft owners in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, including major airlines and aircraft leasing companies. The company recently received significant investment from Baird Capital, the direct investment arm of Baird, to support the continued growth of the UK business, alongside supporting rapid growth in its new continental European facility in Castellón, Spain, with plans to expand into North America, the world’s largest disassembly market. 

eCube was one of Bro Tathan’s first tenants, and their base provides a unique combination of offerings – access to the south Wales pool of aviation talent, a regulated airfield with permanent Air Traffic Control, a runway which accommodates aircraft of all sizes, easy access to Cardiff, Cardiff airport and the motorway network. This is all supplemented by the backing of the Welsh Government, with the Airfield Development Team and Business Wales supporting the company’s development on a regular basis.

Bro Tathan includes a fully operational 1,800m runway on a commercial airfield operated by Cardiff Airport, stand-out features include:

• a strategic employment site offering occupiers quick and serviced occupational solutions, as well as space to grow through a range of design and build opportunities.

• a convenient location, within 15 miles of Cardiff, 20 minutes from the M4, and less than five miles from Cardiff Airport, with over 50 direct flights and more than 900 international connections.

• access to a skilled workforce, with strong links to local colleges and universities.

Many of the world’s primary aerospace businesses already operate in the Bro Tathan area, including British Airways, Airbus, GE, and Nordam. The business park is also home to Caerdav, who are creating Europe’s most advanced flight training centre of excellence for commercial aviation training and engineering, providing complete training for pilots and cabin crew. Also located at Bro Tathan is global car icon Aston Martin and production of its first SUV, the Aston Martin DBX.

Press Release   13 October 2020

Award for key Bro Tathan access

The significant Ffordd Bro Tathan northern access road to Welsh Government’s 1,200 acres Bro Tathan business park in the Vale of Glamorgan has been awarded the Civils Project of the Year in the Constructing Excellence in Wales Awards 2020.

The new Welsh Government funded £15m road was opened by Transport Minister, Ken Skates, on 30 September last year, launching a prime investment opportunity in the Cardiff Airport and Bro Tathan Enterprise Zone, which is home to major occupiers including Aston Martin Lagonda, eCube Solutions and Bristow Helicopters, and features a fully operational 1,800m runway on a commercial airfield operated by Cardiff Airport. The road was built by Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd, from Abergavenny, and acts as an important economic link, enabling inward investment and encouraging future development.

Transport Minister, Ken Skates, said: “Bro Tathan is a significant part of Wales’ economic infrastructure and this road provides much-needed access to all of the opportunities it brings. All construction projects bring challenges, which in this case were met with a great deal of innovation and creativity. I want to thank everyone involved in the project for their hard work and I’m pleased they have received recognition through this much-deserved award.”

Bro Tathan is marketed by agents Savills, and offers:

• a strategic employment site offering occupiers quick and serviced occupational solutions, as well as space to grow through a range of design and build opportunities.

• a convenient location, within 15 miles of Cardiff, 20 minutes from the M4, and less than five miles from Cardiff Airport, with over 50 direct flights and more than 900 international connections.

• access to a skilled workforce, with strong links to local colleges and universities.

Construction of the road created substantial active travel provision as well as benefits to biodiversity. A bespoke lighting scheme designed with Natural Resources Wales is in place to mitigate the impact on dormice and bats, while consultation with a fish ecology specialist led to a uniquely designed stream culvert to assist with the passage of fish through their habitats.

Ian Thomas, Project Manager for Alun Griffiths Contractors said: “We are thrilled to receive accolade for our part in delivering the Bro Tathan Northern Access Road. It was truly a pleasure to be part of a one team ethos that held collaboration and innovation as core values, ensuring all team members were engaged to overcome the challenges faced.”

Many of the world’s primary aerospace businesses operate in the Bro Tathan area, including British Airways, Airbus, GE, and Nordam. eCube Solutions’ core services include aircraft disassembly and recycling, parking, customs management, crating fabrication and parts storage in both UK and Spain. Last week they took delivery of the iconic last of the British Airways 747s.

Press Release   25 August 2020

Investment for aircraft disassembly specialist

An aircraft disassembly and end of life services provider based on Bro Tathan, the Welsh Government's business park in the Vale of Glamorgan, has secured investment.

Baird Capital, the direct investment arm of Baird, has acquired an interest in eCube, a provider of storage, disassembly and parts re-use and recycling services to global aircraft owners in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, including major airlines and aircraft leasing companies.

eCube was one of Bro Tathan’s first tenants, and its base provides access to the South Wales pool of aviation talent, a regulated airfield with permanent Air Traffic Control, a runway which accommodates aircraft of all sizes and strong transport links.

The new investment will support the continued growth of the UK business, alongside supporting growth in its new continental European facility in Castellón, Spain, expanding parking availability and additional disassembly capacity. Baird Capital’s James Benfield and Andrew Dyer will join the eCube board of directors.

Supported by Baird Capital’s global platform, the business also plans to expand into North America, the world’s largest disassembly market.

eCube chief executive Tim Schmidt said: "We are excited to work alongside Baird Capital. Their culture is a strong fit with eCube, and their industrial expertise, network and global resources will be invaluable as we focus on driving future innovation and growth."

James Benfield, Baird Capital partner and managing director, added: "We are delighted to bring eCube into Baird Capital’s portfolio. Its position as a leader in its rapidly growing market makes it a great fit for our industrial portfolio. In addition, our global platform and in-country operating resources are a great match with their aspirations to expand into the US and Asian markets."

Aerospace businesses already operating in the Bro Tathan area, include British Airways, Airbus, GE, and Nordam. The business park is also home to Caerdav, which is creating an advanced flight training centre of excellence for commercial aviation training and engineering.

Also located at Bro Tathan is global car icon Aston Martin and production of its first SUV, the Aston Martin DBX.

Press Release   17 July 2020

Manufacturer Britishvolt has signed a MOU with Welsh Government

Plans for a job-creating manufacturing plant at Bro Tathan have moved forward.

Manufacturer Britishvolt has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Welsh Government as both parties work together on plans to develop a commercially viable 30 GWh plant and supplementary 200MW solar plant, at Bro Tathan.

After six months of careful analysis, the site was narrowed down from more than 40 locations due to a number of factors including: import/export accessibility, availability of labour and skilled staff and convenient geographical proximity to customers and local industrial companies.

Both parties have now signed a MOU, to collaborate on the potential of building of the gigaplant subject to UK government funding through the Automotive Transformation Fund, to produce lithium ion cylindrical and pouch cells primarily servicing the automotive market.

It is anticipated that the initial £1.2 billion of investment from the company could eventually lead towards up to 3,500 jobs. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2021.

Orral Nadjari, chief executive and founder at Britishvolt, said: “We are immensely proud to announce plans to work exclusively with the Welsh Government to develop the UK’s landmark battery gigaplant.”

“Wales has welcomed us with open arms and exceptional due diligence and we believe the country has a vast untapped potential. Hiring local people, including those currently out of work, and developing strong relationships with nearby educational facilities will be a priority for us to ensure a stream of skilled staff.“

“Britishvolt will also encourage other businesses to invest in the region with the aim of creating a ‘hub’ of battery electrification - building out our very own infrastructure and supply chain ecosystem, which will create thousands more jobs.”

He added: “The construction of the solar farm will not only ensure our gigaplant has a near carbon neutral electricity input - complementing our goal of becoming one of the greenest battery producers worldwide - but also provide cleaner energy to the local area.”

“The pandemic is acting as a catalyst, creating new markets for greener technologies, and highlighting the importance of localised supply chains - which Britishvolt has the backing and resources to drive forward.”

Press Release   10 July 2020

Aston Martin completes first car at Bro Tathan

The first Aston Martin to be constructed at Bro Tathan has been driven off the production line.

The first DBX has been completed at Bro Tathan which opened in December 2019. It comes just over four years since the luxury car maker announced its plans to build the manufacturing facility. 

Interim chief operating officer Keith Stanton said: "It is a real privilege to be here today to witness the completion of the first production Aston Martin DBX. I’m extremely proud of the Aston Martin team who have worked so hard to transform this ex-Ministry of Defence site into a world-class car manufacturing facility, to now be producing cars, it is testament to the resilience and fortitude of everyone at Aston Martin. It is an honour to see the first DBX come off the line and my only regret is that everyone who works for this incredible brand can’t be here to witness it."

Executive vice president and chief creative officer Marek Reichman added: "We are incredibly proud of our first SUV, which is as much of an Aston Martin as any one of our sports cars. From my design team to the engineers, the vehicle dynamics team and all the experts who hand-craft this beautiful car, here at St Athan, the DBX has become the car that will drive Aston Martin into a bold new era."

The first deliveries of the DBX to customers will start later this month.

Minister for economy, transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said: "This is a historic moment for Aston Martin and for Wales. It is also a huge win for the Welsh Government’s can-do attitude. The DBX is an exceptional vehicle from one of the world’s most luxury car brands, and it will be central to this iconic company’s growth plan and ambitions for the future. I could not be more proud to see this fantastic SUV being made in Wales and rolling off the production line. It also speaks volumes for the dedication and skills of the world class work force we have right here in Wales."

Press Release   15 June 2020

eCube Solutions features in new TV show, Plane Reclaimers

A new series, Plane Reclaimers, has launched on Quest TV providing an insight into the workings of eCube Solutions. The show focuses on the team at eCube, the nature of typical projects and illustrates some of their spin-off business activities. 

The show takes viewers through the end-of-life process of an aircraft where teams work against the clock to strip out the valuable components and then to crush and recycle the remaining fuselage. The valuable parts are sold on by eCube’s customers to consumers around the world and are either refurbished and upcycled for new aircraft or, repurposed for film sets and furniture.

Plane Reclaimers is a ten part documentary series, showing on Quest TV every Tuesday at 21:00 hrs.

eCube Solutions launched in 2011 and are based at Bro Tathan West. Today the business boasts huge success, employs over 100 people and has recently expanded into Spain.

https://ecube.aero/

planereclaimers.co.uk

Press Release   12 June 2020

Electric Cars: Bro Tathan site ‘preferred’ for ‘gigafactory’

The firm behind a proposed battery factory which could create 4,000 jobs has listed Bro Tathan as its “preferred option”. Britishvolt, which wants to produce batteries for electric vehicles, said it will build its factory in Bro Tathan, or Coventry.

The Welsh Government said it was “very pleased” Bro Tathan was shortlisted.

Britishvolt’s chief operating officer, Orral Nadjari, who studied at Cardiff University for seven years, said Bro Tathan was a “very good location” for the factory, which would bring £1.2 billion of investment. He said: “We’re looking to build a ‘gigaplant’ that is roughly 1km long, 500m wide and 30m high, so it’s a huge undertaking and something as big as that doesn’t really just fit anywhere. The direct dialogue that we’ve had with the Welsh Government has been going on now for a couple of weeks, and the readiness and preparedness that they’ve shown us has been extremely interesting, hence now why they’re in the running for our site location.”

Britishvolt said it was offering between 3,500 and 4,000 direct jobs at the site, but denied it was marketing itself to the highest bidder in order to get more funding. “I am being very honest and open about the fact that Wales is the kind of preferred option,” Mr Nadjari added. “We are not marketing or trying to sell to the highest bidder because the Welsh Government is doing an exceptional job and they are the preferred destination.”

Welsh Government has said: “We have been working with Britishvolt on this project for a significant period of time and we are pleased they have shortlisted Bro Tathan as a location for its landmark gigafactory. We firmly believe that Bro Tathan provides a compelling case, particularly for a company looking to become one of the greenest battery produces worldwide.”

Tim Williams, from the Welsh Automotive Industry, said the proposal was “excellent news for Wales. If this comes off, and hopefully it will, then we’re talking about 3,500 new jobs directly and probably a multiplier of two in the supply chain” he said. “Welsh Government need to be bold as they possibly can be. This is such a huge investment, such a big number of jobs and Welsh Government over many years has had a very, very successful record in bringing in large projects.”

Welsh Secretary Simon Hart said it was “fantastic that we can talk about Wales as being a leading contender” for the UK’s first gigafactory.

Press Release   6 May 2020

Bro Tathan launches search for public art

Bro Tathan business park in the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan has launched a public art competition, inviting artists to use their creative imagination and innovation to distinguish the entrance to the site and make it attractive and welcoming to developers, businesses and visitors.

The 1,200 acres business park includes a fully operational 1,800m runway on a commercial airfield operated by nearby Cardiff Airport, and is home to the likes of global car icon Aston Martin and to eCube Solutions, an international player in the aviation services industry.

Artists can bid for three public art commissions – a Gateway Sculpture at Y Porth, the main entrance to Bro Tathan, where a new access road was opened last autumn; a Creative Screening Solution for the entrance boundary; and an environmental / land art project.

Simon Fenoulhet is a Wales-based artist who manipulates objects and environment, and he is collaborating with Bro Tathan as a public art consultant. Simon said: “Public art is to play an important role in the development of Bro Tathan, a place where high-tech industries can flourish in a climate of innovation and creative thinking. There is so much here for artists to take inspiration from. 

“These three publicly accessible works will add character and originality to the new development zone, inviting visitors to explore the area and enjoy the artists’ contributions.”

With a strong geographical and historical heritage, Bro Tathan was named after the Celtic saint who founded a church in the area in the 14th century. It also embraces Wales’s rich bilingual culture. Its strap line: ‘Business • Air • Innovation Busnes • Awyr • Arloesedd’ signifies the vast range of its potential.

It is hoped all three artworks will be installed during the summer of 2021, and artists will be expected to engage with the local communities of Llanmaes, St. Athan and Llantwit Major.

Bro Tathan offers great opportunities for business, air and innovation, and strong links between Wales and the rest of the world, with:

• a strategic employment site offering occupiers quick and serviced occupational solutions, as well as space to grow through a range of design and build opportunities.

• a convenient location, within 15 miles of Cardiff, 20 minutes from the M4, and less than five miles from Cardiff Airport, with over 50 direct flights and more than 900 international connections.

• access to a skilled workforce, with strong links to local colleges and universities.

The public art has been commissioned by Welsh Government working in partnership with The Vale of Glamorgan Council, local community councils, WYG (master planner), Burroughs (engineer) and Savills (commercial property agent).

Press Release   22 April 2020

Rubb to provide hangar for Bro Tathan Business Park

Press Release   15 April 2020

NATS takes over Air Traffic Control at Bro Tathan