Alison McGovern MP visits Balaena’s Birkenhead yard

Balaena was pleased to welcome Alison McGovern MP, Member of Parliament for Birkenhead, to our Birkenhead yard for a discussion on the future of the town, British shipbuilding and the opportunities ahead.

Alison joined Group CEO Simon Gillett, Chair Alan Donnelly and Executive Director John Furmston to hear more about Balaena’s ambitions for Birkenhead and the role the yard can continue to play in supporting UK shipbuilding, defence and the wider maritime industry.

There was also plenty to discuss around Birkenhead’s identity and heritage, particularly as the town has been shortlisted to become the UK’s first Town of Culture.

For generations, shipbuilding has helped shape Birkenhead – its people, communities, skills and character. That heritage remains visible throughout the town, but shipbuilding is not simply part of Birkenhead’s past. It has the potential to be a major part of its future.

At Balaena, we believe the combination of skilled people, significant existing infrastructure and a new generation entering the industry creates a real opportunity to build on that legacy. By bringing more shipbuilding, ship repair and engineering work into Birkenhead, there is the potential to support skilled employment, apprenticeships, local supply chains and long-term economic growth.

The visit provided an opportunity to discuss Balaena’s plans for the site, the importance of maintaining and growing sovereign UK maritime capability and the role established shipbuilding communities such as Birkenhead can play in delivering the country’s future fleet.

Thank you to Alison for spending time with the team and for a valuable conversation about Birkenhead, British shipbuilding and the opportunities ahead.