Shipyard reopening 'close' says union

However Unite has said more 'political will' is needed

A union says the re-opening of Devon’s Appledore Shipyard is close, but a lack of joined-up thinking between the government and the county council is holding up the deal.

The North Devon yard closed in March 2019. Unite understands that a consortium is poised to buy the site and has already secured roughly four years’ worth of work for between 100-200 skilled workers.

Unite regional officer Heathcliffe Pettifer, who previously worked at the yard said: “We are on the verge of securing the re-opening of the Appledore shipyard the only thing delaying the process appears to be a lack of political will.

 “The government needs to demonstrate joined up thinking and provide the minimal assurances the consortium needs in order to get the yard re-opened.

 “Any further delay or lack of support would be a gross dereliction of the government’s duty to support the UK’s shipbuilding industry.”

A Devon County Council spokesman said: “The commitment and political will from Devon County Council is not in question when it comes to re-opening Appledore Shipyard.

“We know how important it is to the local community, and we’re as keen as everyone to get a deal over the line as soon as possible and get the shipyard up and running.

“We have worked extremely hard with partners and local MP Geoffrey Cox to get to this point and find new owners for the shipyard.

“Regular talks are ongoing with Government and the potential new owners of the shipyard over how public investment can be secured to support the re-opening of the yard.

“Critically, we wish to achieve a sustainable and viable future for the yard and secure long term employment and economic benefits for the local area. We're hoping that talks can be completed successfully very soon.”