Construction starts on the UK's first full-scale 'gigaplant' in Northumberland
Construction work has begun on a multi-million pound 'gigaplant' in Northumberland.
The site of the former Blyth Power Station coal stocking yard in Cambois is set to be the country’s first full-scale lithium-ion gigaplant - a factory which produces electric vehicle batteries on a gigantic scale.
The Britishvolt plant will have a production capacity for creating about 300,000 electric vehicle battery packs each year, intended primarily for the car industry.
Approval of plans for the gigaplant in Northumberland have been described as a ‘game changer’ by the county council.
Council leader Glen Sanderson said: “We’ve a long and proud history of industry in this part of Northumberland and a factory and investment of this size will put this area firmly on the map once again for generations to come.
“And with Nissan’s announcement of a Gigafactory last week it really has been a great week for the north east – as we lead the country in pioneering new and green technologies.”
Peter Rolton, Britishvolt chairman, said: “The Gigaplant will bring with it much need employment, totally regenerating the area."
The first phase of the facility is intended to be operational by 2023 and at full capacity by 2028.