Babcock announces capability centre location in Plymouth, UK
Defence company Babcock International Group has confirmed the location for its new Capability Centre in Plymouth, on the UK’s south coast, where it plans to relocate up to 2,000 employees to the heart of the city.
The new Capability Centre will be based at 40-46 Royal Parade, the former home of Dingles and latterly House of Fraser in the city centre.
The opening of the new facility enables Babcock to free up space at its Devonport site as the company continues to deliver on Ministry of Defence projects in the south west of England. The investment will also deliver a boost to Plymouth’s economy.
The plans, first announced in June 2025, will see some of Babcock’s employees transition from Devonport Royal Dockyard to the new facility, which will play a major role in supporting long-term operations, while also strengthening Plymouth’s position as a national hub for defence, engineering, skills and innovation.
Harry Holt, chief executive of Babcock Nuclear, says: “Securing a location for our new off‑site facility is a significant milestone. Importantly, it will strengthen the capabilities required to deliver this critical work in the defence of our nation. The move reinforces our commitment to Team Plymouth, supporting sustainable prosperity by creating high‑quality jobs, strengthening Plymouth’s economy and accelerating regeneration in the city centre.
“With major investment through the Ministry of Defence in our Devonport co‑located site and new services, including our MoveSmart shuttle bus service, it is an exciting time for Babcock and for Plymouth. We remain committed to this journey with our colleagues, customer and partners, moving forward, together.”
Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, adds: “Babcock’s announcement that Plymouth city centre will be home to 2,000 workers is a huge vote of confidence; not just in our city, but in our regeneration plans and the future of defence here. By relocating roles into the city centre, this move creates vital space at Devonport for the billions of pounds being invested in new defence infrastructure, equipment, and capability, supporting both our armed forces and the local economy.”
Leader of Plymouth City Council, Tudor Evans, says: “This is fantastic news for Plymouth. Babcock’s commitment, bringing 2,000 more people into the city centre, will deliver a major boost to people and businesses. It marks an important moment for the city and shows what’s possible when Team Plymouth partners come together.”
The announcement builds on recent momentum for the city, including Plymouth being named a National Defence Growth Area and the Ministry of Defence’s £4.4 billion investment in Devonport.
Leave a Reply