Plymouth's new defence hub to relocate 2,000 Babcock staff by 2025
A major defence facility is set to open in Plymouth city centre after plans were finalised to relocate 2,000 Babcock employees. The new Capability Centre will occupy the former House of Fraser site at 40-46 Royal Parade. Officials say the move will boost local businesses and free up space at Devonport Royal Dockyard for expanding Ministry of Defence projects.
The relocation was first announced in 2025 as part of a wider push to increase capacity at Devonport. Babcock Nuclear secured the city centre location, with Chief Executive Harry Holt calling it a significant milestone. The company will transfer highly skilled staff to the new site, increasing footfall and supporting nearby shops, cafes, and services.
Defence Minister Lord Coaker stated that the investment would reinforce Plymouth's role as a national hub for defence, engineering, and innovation. Local MP Luke Pollard added that the decision represented a *huge vote of confidence* in the city's regeneration plans. The project is expected to create high-quality jobs and strengthen the local economy. By moving staff out of Devonport, the scheme also makes room for billions of pounds of new defence infrastructure, equipment, and capability programmes.
The new facility will house around 2,000 workers, bringing more activity to Plymouth's city centre. It will also allow Devonport Royal Dockyard to focus on upcoming Ministry of Defence expansions. The investment aligns with broader efforts to grow the city's economy and defence sector.
