Prestwick is recognised as an international maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) hub, with companies in the area now facing major demand to satisfy growth in the aerospace sector.  

Due to these demands, a new 50,000 square foot advanced manufacturing aerospace facility, constructed by McLaughlin & Harvey, will be located adjacent to existing buildings at GE Aerospace, expanding its MRO site. 

A total of £27 million from South Ayrshire Council on behalf of the Ayrshire Growth Deal, £30m from GE Aerospace, and £6m from Scottish Enterprise are supporting the investment. 

This project forms part of a commercial build programme which intends to accelerate growth within the aerospace sector. The programme is known as the Prestwick Proposition. 

The Proposition forms part of the Ayrshire Growth Deal, which is a £251 million investment over ten years jointly supported by the UK and Scottish governments, as well as local authorities. 

Andy Prow, site leader of GE Aerospace, Prestwick, said: “This investment reflects GE Aerospace’s commitment to our customers and to the future of our Prestwick site. 

“By expanding and modernising the facility with the help of South Ayrshire Council and partners, we are improving capacity, operational flow and readiness for future demand, while helping hire and train additional workers from the area.”  

Councillor Brian Connolly, leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “This is a major milestone for the Ayrshire Growth Deal, which will significantly benefit South Ayrshire and the wider Scottish economy. 

“This long-term commitment also further demonstrates our dedication to provid[ing] attractive career opportunities for future generations within local STEM industries.”  

UK Government minister for Scotland, Melanie Ward said: “In total the UK Government is investing £32 million through the Ayrshire Growth Deal into the Prestwick Aerospace Cluster.”

Jenny Gilruth, Scottish Government Deputy First Minister, said: “This major expansion of GE Aerospace’s operations at Prestwick is a real boost for the local economy …”

“It is also a vote of confidence in Scotland’s workforce, and our support for this expansion clearly demonstrates our commitment to build on the strengths of our advanced manufacturing and engineering sectors, as well as stressing the importance of the aerospace sector.”

Reuben Aitken, managing director, Investment & International at Scottish Enterprise, said: “GE Aerospace’s investment builds on decades of engineering expertise at Prestwick and the site’s role within its global operations. 

“It’s a strong endorsement of the people, skills and capabilities that exist in Ayrshire, while reinforcing Scotland’s reputation as an attractive destination for international investment in aerospace.”  

As part of the Ayrshire Growth Deal investment, £18 million comes from the UK Government, £8 million comes from the Scottish Government, and £1 million comes from South Ayrshire Council.