Demolition starts at Harland & Wolff shipyard

Demolition works have begun at the iconic Belfast Harland & Wolff shipyard, marking the start of a journey to becoming the UK’s most technologically advanced shipyard.

Following the award of the manufacturing subcontract with Navantia in relation to the £1.6 billion FSS warship programme, Harland & Wolff confirmed it would see £77 million invested in technology in its Belfast and Appledore shipyards. Works have commenced as it prepares to deliver on the contract win in 2023.

An extension to the fabrication halls will be undertaken to facilitate a highly dynamic material and sub-structure production flow, along with a highly efficient manufacturing and production process. Investments will be made in technologically-advanced robotic and autonomous equipment that includes material movement, marking, plate cutting, panel lines and robotic welding. In addition, new larger paint buildings will be constructed to facilitate larger and more efficient block painting.

This subcontract will be a significant and historic step change to Harland & Wolff’s capabilities and will make it an important participant in the international shipbuilding industry. Specifically, with modern shipyards and a proven track record post-FSS.

Following the planned investments and upgrades to its sites, Harland & Wolff will be able to capitalise on further multi-billion-pound fabrication and heavy engineering opportunities within the defence, renewables and commercial maritime markets globally. The business will target a significant number of floating offshore wind projects for which fabrication is expected to commence between 2024 and 2030.