GE Aerospace is to invest £30m in a new maintenance, repair and overhaul workshop next to Prestwick Airport, creating around 150 new skilled jobs at its existing Prestwick site.
The project, supported through the Ayrshire Growth Deal and delivered by South Ayrshire Council, will see the US-owned aircraft engine supplier expand its operation with a new purpose-built facility.
Construction of new 55,000 sq ft building
Construction of a new 55,000 sq ft building will now begin to facilitate the expansion. GE Aerospace also plans to hire around 150 workers over the next five years.
The project is set to improve site layout, operational flow and capacity to support future demand, with full operations expected in 2028.
Funding and support
The overall investment is supported by £27m from the Ayrshire Growth Deal, bringing total planned investment to £57m, along with a planned £6m investment from Scottish Enterprise. Of the Ayrshire Growth Deal investment, £18m is coming from the UK Government, £8m from the Scottish Government and £1m from South Ayrshire Council.
Announcing the news, Andy Prow, Site Leader, GE Aerospace in Prestwick said: “This investment reflects GE Aerospace’s commitment to our customers and to the future of our Prestwick site.”
He added: “By expanding and modernising the facility with the help of the Scottish Government and partners, we are improving capacity, operational flow and readiness for future demand, while helping hire and train additional workers from the area.”
Political reaction
Brian Connolly, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “This is a major milestone for the Ayrshire Growth Deal, which will significantly benefit South Ayrshire and the wider Scottish economy.”
Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth welcomed the investment during a visit to the Prestwick facility, saying: “GE Aerospace’s decision to expand its operations in Prestwick is a major vote of confidence in Scotland, our workforce and our aerospace sector.”
UK Government Minister for Scotland Melanie Ward said: “With more than £18 million of UK Government funding we are unlocking private sector investment, boosting skilled jobs and helping drive good growth in every Scottish postcode.” She added that the UK Government is investing £32m through the Ayrshire Growth Deal into the Prestwick Aerospace Cluster.
GE Aerospace is a significant employer and industrial investor in the UK, with capabilities spanning manufacturing, engineering, maintenance, repair and overhaul, research and development, and advanced aerospace systems. The Prestwick site supports engine services capability in Scotland and the wider UK, European and global aerospace sector.
