BAE Barrow’s shipyard hosted a visit from Michael Gove this week.
During the visit Mr Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, and Barrow and Furness MP Simon Fell were shown around BAE’s state-of-the-art Submarine Academy For Skills and Knowledge, where the pair met with some local apprentices.
They were also taken to the Devonshire Dock Complex where he saw the fifth-of-class Astute submarine, HMS Anson.
Before the site tour, Mr Gove’s team met and delegates met with BAE’s managing director Steve Timms, HR director Paul Ethell and operational improvement director Steve Cole, and several local authority leaders.
Mr Gove’s visit follows the announcement of the latest local projects to win a share of the £2.1bn Levelling Up Fund, which is designed to rejuvenate communities like Barrow from all across the country.
Following the visit, Mr Fell said: “The Secretary of State was taken by BAE’s decision to purchase the vacant properties – including Debenhams – on Portland Walk.
“This investment in the town centre directly links BAE to the £16 million Levelling Up fund investment in the market and Forum.
“My thanks go to BAE for being such amazing hosts to a senior cabinet member and I once again, and for the amazing work which they do to keep our country and allies safe.”
