Agratas has shared dramatic aerial footage capturing construction progress at its battery manufacturing facility in Bridgwater, Somerset.
The multi-billion-pound project is set to be the biggest of its kind in the UK and will play a pivotal role in advancing clean technology and sustainable energy, producing battery cells destined for electric vehicles and energy storage solutions.
The footage shows the latest developments made at the 308-acre site – located just off junction 23 of the M5 motorway – and in the first construction phase of the complex project, referred to as ‘Building One’.
Recent progress includes the start of work on multiple floor levels, with 3,000 tonnes of locally-supplied concrete having been poured to date, to build lower and mezzanine floor decks.
The steel framework for a 100-metre-long central utilities building has also started to take shape. The separate structure will eventually host the facility’s management system – a control system to monitor and manage important functions like the data and power supply to the building when it becomes operational.
As construction ramps up, there are now 450 people based on site, working both directly for Agratas and indirectly through its supply chain and construction delivery partner Sir Robert McAlpine. Construction of the first manufacturing building alone will support more than 2,200 direct jobs and around 7,500 jobs in the supply chain, for the duration of the build.
Chris Love, our Vice President, Global Manufacturing Engineering and UK Construction, said:
“Our project will create many positive opportunities and benefits for Somerset and the South West, so we’re hugely proud of the progress our team and partners have made to date. It’s exciting to see the facility taking shape, moving us a step closer to delivering sustainable, world-class battery production here in Somerset.”
Craig Allen, Managing Director, Industrial Sector, Sir Robert McAlpine, said:
“We’re proud to be playing a key role in delivering this landmark facility for Agratas. The scale and complexity of the project showcase the very best of UK engineering and collaboration. Together, we’re building the foundations for a sustainable future – one that will create jobs in the region, drive innovation, and support the transition to clean energy.”
Construction began in 2024 and will continue into 2026. Next year will also see the start of recruitment for some 1,600 jobs required to facilitate battery cell production – including roles in operations, maintenance, quality, technical, engineering, and logistics.
Once fully operational, the project is expected to generate more than £700 million in economic value annually for the South West.
For more details on careers at Agratas, visit: agratas.com/careers
