Plymouth Secures £84 Million Boost for Defence Growth Initiatives

A substantial £84 million investment package, which includes £50 million from the government and up to an additional £34 million from industry and local partners, is poised to position Plymouth as a national frontrunner in defence maritime autonomy. This initiative is expected to generate nearly 1,000 new jobs while supporting 500 individuals in securing employment, alongside the establishment of a new National Centre for Marine Autonomy.

The ambitious investment will benefit over 400 businesses across the UK and introduce fresh skills and training opportunities for thousands of young people in Plymouth. Lord Coaker visited Market Hall in Plymouth today to endorse Team Plymouth’s strategic business case, heralding the launch of this significant investment package aimed at bolstering national security, supporting local enterprises, and facilitating the city’s reindustrialisation.

Creating Opportunities and Employment

This funding confirms the establishment of Plymouth’s National Centre for Marine Autonomy, which is anticipated to create around 120 jobs and attract more than 30 businesses, including both start-ups and established firms focused on developing advanced maritime technologies.

In conjunction with the business and innovation investment, the newly instituted £1.5 million ‘Get Plymouth Working’ initiative aims to assist 500 individuals in securing positions within defence, advanced manufacturing, engineering, and construction sectors, with a particular emphasis on veterans and young adults aged 18 to 25. Approximately 750 individuals will acquire new technical skills and qualifications, while over 7,000 young people will gain access to STEM training opportunities.

Furthermore, the broader programme is expected to positively impact more than 400 UK businesses, offering support to companies engaged in robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems.

Strengthening National Security and Local Economies

Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker remarked, “The £84 million investment will establish Plymouth as a national leader in defence maritime autonomy, creating high-skilled jobs, supporting businesses, and providing new training opportunities for thousands of local residents.” He emphasised the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and local partners in fostering nearly 1,000 jobs, developing essential skills for the Armed Forces and defence industry, and positioning Plymouth as a premier centre for marine autonomy. This investment not only fortifies national security but also supports British jobs, businesses, and communities.

Sir Chris Gardner, Senior Responsible Owner for Team Plymouth, stated, “Today marks a major milestone for Team Plymouth and the partners who have collaborated with a shared goal to unlock the potential of this city and the surrounding region.” He noted that the release of the Defence Growth Deal funding would further entrench Plymouth as the UK’s National Centre for Marine Autonomy, thereby creating jobs, supporting businesses, and investing in future skills.

A Collaborative Approach to Growth

Neal Misell, CEO of Babcock Nuclear, commented, “The Plymouth Defence Growth Deal exemplifies the achievements possible when government, industry, education, and local partners unite around a common vision. As one of the region’s largest employers and a founding member of Team Plymouth, Babcock is honoured to be at the heart of this partnership.” He remarked on the critical importance of connecting people directly to industry needs, emphasising that this synergy is vital for transforming Plymouth’s defence strengths into sustainable capabilities, skills, jobs, and economic growth for the region.

Plymouth and the South West region are already integral to UK defence, with the Ministry of Defence having spent over £6.6 billion in the South West during the 2024/25 fiscal year, directly supporting 37,300 industry jobs and allocating nearly £400 million to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Investing in Infrastructure and Growth

Moreover, £7 billion is currently being invested in HMNB Devonport as part of the most significant naval infrastructure programme since the end of the Cold War. This latest influx of investment will also aid in the regeneration of the Turnchapel waterfront and the creation of new industrial and commercial spaces throughout the city, thereby facilitating the expansion of growing businesses and fostering the necessary conditions for long-term economic growth.

During his visit, Lord Coaker toured HMNB Devonport, City College Plymouth, and Babcock International, engaging with local leaders, educators, businesses, and students to witness firsthand how defence investment is already contributing to job creation, skill development, and economic growth throughout the city.