27 November 2003
Dstl moves its experts closer together
The Defence, Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has today announced
its decision to reduce the number of sites on which it operates to three
core sites. These sites will be Porton Down in Wiltshire, Fort Halstead
in Kent and Portsdown West near Portsmouth.
This decision, endorsed by Lord Bach, Minister for Defence Procurement,
follows detailed consideration of many options. It has the agreement
of HM Treasury and the Lyons Review of public sector relocation.
Among the benefits that will accrue to Dstl and MOD are:
- increased technical synergy and coherence;
- improved operational effectiveness;
- better integration of teams;
- enhanced development opportunities and career prospects for staff;
and,
- reduced overhead costs.
As part of the rationalisation programme, Dstl staff currently at Farnborough,
Malvern, Winfrith, Glasgow, Bedford and Rosyth will be withdrawn from
those sites. Approximately 850 of these staff will move to Porton Down,
which will also become home to the corporate headquarters, with a further
550 moving to Portsdown West. It is anticipated that this process will
be completed by late 2007.
Commenting on the move, Lord Bach, Minister for Defence Procurement
said:
“ I fully support Dstl’s decision to move to three core
sites. It offers good prospects for Portsmouth with a significant number
of staff moving to the area at a time when a number of defence related
organisations have moved away. Dstl Porton Down has long been a centre
of excellence so it makes sense to develop and enhance the capabilities
on this site. The move represents the best option available for the
MOD and offers Dstl a bright future.”
Consultations with the local authorities continue regarding the building
plans at Portsdown West and Porton Down.
Martin Earwicker, Chief Executive at Dstl said:
“ I believe this is an excellent opportunity for Dstl and its
employees. The co-location of staff and the new accommodation will create
the environment, both physical and intellectual, where people can develop
their potential to the full. It is a big step towards Dstl’s vision
of creating a cohesive centre of scientific excellence with world class
facilities.”
For more information please contact:
Annabel Mead
Public Relations Manager, Dstl
asmead@dstl.gov.uk
01252 455994
07766 134768
Sue Ellison
Press Officer, Dstl
slellison@dstl.gov.uk
01980 613933
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