Britishvolt hits Cambois factory milestone as first aggregate delivered

Work to create an 3000-job vehicle battery factory has reached a major landmark.

Builders have welcomed the first train load of aggregate for Britishvolt’s huge plant at Cambois, near Blyth, Northumberland.

Bosses say the base – referred to as a gigafactory – has the potential to create 3000 direct jobs and up to 5000 supply chain posts, by making as many as 300,000 batteries every year, when it opens in 2024.

The first 1500 tonnes of aggregate, delivered to Port of Blyth from a Cumbrian quarry, forms part of a 316,000 tonnes stone consignment for the factory’s foundations, with more than 15,000 piles set to be installed.

Craig Woodburn, head of ESG at Britishvolt, said: “The key milestones that have taken this project from a concept vision to shovel-ready project in record time have all been achieved through consent and collaboration with the local community.

“And we are committed to making the right decisions to ensure we create a true legacy transformation for this region.”

Rob Bradley, construction director at main contractor ISG, added: “Port of Blyth is an ideal materials hub, with the infrastructure and logistical expertise to run this programme-critical operation.”

Britishvolt has already secured blue–chip deals with Lotus and Aston Martin to develop technology for next generation sports cars, and recently announced a partnership with Northumberland College and the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre.

The college will cultivate production line and technician apprentices, and support Britishvolt’s BV FutureGen Foundation, which will provide gateway qualifications into STEM and renewables roles.