Defence Firm Banair Acquires Powys Land for Military Bridge Testing
Defence sector company Banair has acquired Welsh Government land in Powys to develop and test new military equipment for defence clients, in an investment expected to create 30 jobs. The firm has purchased two plots at Wyeside Enterprise Park in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, and has already begun testing its own-design lightweight aluminium vehicle bridging system at the site.
Land Deal and Development Details
The value of the land deal has not been disclosed. The bridging equipment, which can span up to 30 metres, is being developed to enable military operations to cross water or gaps over dry land. Banair is advancing this capability with direct innovation support grant funding.
Headquartered in the West Midlands, Banair operates from multiple sites, including manufacturing facilities in Dudley and Poland, and sales offices in the USA and Japan. The company also has aspirations for a new factory nearby.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
Banair expects to create around 20 jobs manufacturing its bridging systems and light-gauge steel frames over the next five years, along with up to 10 additional jobs for research and development of its defence products. This move is part of a broader effort to boost the local economy.
Government and Company Statements
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, stated: "The Welsh Government is working hard to increase the availability of commercial sites and premises for businesses in every part of Wales. Banair needed additional space to develop and showcase new military solutions, and we were able to assist the company on a tight timescale to help fulfil its contract obligations and achieve its expansion ambitions. Securing skilled manufacturing jobs for the region in the future helps us deliver on our vision for a more prosperous Wales for all."
Chief executive of Banair, Andrew Gunn, added: "We are delighted to have acquired this important site in Powys to allow us to develop, test and showcase our military bridging solutions. This new proving ground and manufacturing site will allow Banair to advance our portfolio of defence products, and we are extremely appreciative of the proactive and pro-business support we’ve received from the Welsh Government throughout the process."
This acquisition highlights the ongoing collaboration between the Welsh Government and private sector firms to drive innovation and job growth in strategic industries like defence.
