Dorset structural engineering firm REIDsteel has announced major redevelopment plans for its site in Christchurch to support its growth ambitions and allow it to create more high-skilled jobs in the area.
The firm, which designs and builds steel framed structures including aircraft hangars, bridges and sports stadia, is aiming to build a modern facility that would bring more of its manufacturing processes under one roof.
The proposed scheme would include landscaping and environmental improvement work of the four-acre base in Reid Street, where it has been based for more than 50 years.
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Work would also take place at an adjacent site formerly occupied by Peeks Party Store and Monkey Madness soft play centre.
The proposals include construction of the new factory and offices with access on to Reid Street. The majority of existing buildings on the site would be demolished.
The company, which employs more than 130 people, has launched a consultation programme to seek the views of the community and other stakeholders before submitting a planning application.
REIDsteel was previously granted planning permission for 170 homes on its site so it could relocate outside of the town centre.
Its directors decided to revisit the scheme when the opportunity became available to remain in the town with space to reconfigure and internalise its operations under one roof.
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Simon Boyd, managing director of REIDsteel, said the proposals represented a “multi-million-pound investment” in Christchurch and its local economy, as well safeguarding the business for many years to come.
Mr Boyd said: “The layout of our current site leads to inefficiencies which reduce our competitiveness, hampering our ability to grow the business.
“Redevelopment would bring multiple manufacturing processes into a single, automated production line under one roof, including steel delivery and unloading.
“This would give us a safer working environment, more control and the ability to implement new technology to improve productivity."
Mr Boyd said the plans would also improve the local environment by cutting down on "noisy outdoor handling" operations and reduce interruptions to traffic flow on Fairmile, caused by restricted access to the firm's existing stockyard.
“The redevelopment would allow us to continue our growth trajectory and bring greater employment to the Christchurch area with more high-skilled jobs," he added.
REIDsteel said it would submit a planning application with BCP Council after its online consultation programme ends on Friday, July 23.
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The £30m turnover company, which has exported to more than 140 countries, recently helped to design and make a hurricane and earthquake resistant government building in Belize, Central America.
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