UK-based aerospace group Meggitt (www.meggitt.com) has unveiled plans for a new 440,000ft² facility at Ansty Park in Coventry.

Expected to become operational by the end of 2019, this will help the group to strategically position itself for future business growth; it will also serve as a hub for next-generation aerospace innovation and R&D activities, such as the development of aircraft braking solutions and control systems.

Meggitt will also establish an engineering and manufacturing ‘centre of excellence’ at the new site for developing future aerospace thermal-management technology.

The Aerospace Technology Institute is supporting this initiative with a £3.7 million R&D award from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Tony Wood, Meggitt chief operating officer, said: “This planned new facility — adjacent to the Manufacturing Technology Centre and the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre — marks a major advance in the development of our global manufacturing footprint and strategically positions us for sustainable growth.

"By bringing world-class innovation and operational delivery together on this site, we will accelerate our ability to meet the current and future needs of customers world-wide.”

Meggitt currently employs more than 11,000 people at over 40 manufacturing sites and regional offices around the globe.