Barrow shipyard is proudly celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.
When the directors of the fledgling Iron Shipbuilding Company first met in January 1871, they sowed the seeds for a business which has grown from humble beginnings to become a key player in the UK’s defence and security industry.
It has been a remarkable journey, and one which has seen the shipyard forge a long-lasting and symbiotic relationship with the Royal Navy.
The Submarines business delivered the Royal Navy’s first submarine, Holland 1, and their first fully nuclear-powered submarine, Dreadnought, as well as every key first-of-class ship since the Second World War.
With three more Astute submarines to deliver, followed by the Dreadnought class and then further down the line SSNR, the shipyard’s partnership with the Royal Navy is set to continue for many more years to come.
The company said at the heart of its success had been its trusted, dedicated and skilled workforce.
Tens of thousands of people have worked at the shipyard over the past 150 years.
Submarines managing director Cliff Robson said: “Barrow shipyard reaching its 150th anniversary is a fantastic achievement. It is testament to the talent, dedication and resilience our workforce has consistently shown down all the years.
“We should all be proud of what we have achieved throughout our long history.
“Taking inspiration from our past can stand the submarines business in good stead for what is sure to be a challenging but exciting future. Here’s to another 150 years.”
