L3Harris moves into new HQ in Tewkesbury

Defence and cyber security business L3Harris is moving into a new facility in Tewkesbury, owned by developer Robert Hitchins Ltd.

Unit 5500 in Shannon Way provides the burgeoning company with more than 40,000 sq ft of modern office and industrial space which enables it not only to expand but also to combine its operations into one headquarters building.

Robert Hitchins is also constructing a 220-space car park at the nearby Cowfield Farm development to accommodate the company’s secure parking requirements.

L3Harris plays a crucial role in national security in the UK and around the world, working in partnership with national civil and defence organisations. Its advanced cyber security and electronic warfare systems secure and protect people, infrastructure and assets from emerging threats.

TRL Technology was founded in Tewkesbury in 1983 and is a subsidiary of the US-based defence company L3Harris, the sixth largest defence company in the US with annual sales of $18 billion, customers in more than 100 countries and 50,000 employees worldwide.

The new facility in Shannon Way will be home to specialists in engineering and software development as well becoming the headquarters of the company’s Intelligence and Cyber International group of companies which has further operations in Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

Richard Flitton, Vice President and General Manager of TRL Technology, said: “We have put collaboration and innovation at the heart of the design of our new building as these are key to staying ahead of the ever-evolving threats to global security and delivering on our mission to make the world a safer place.

“Our new home will offer a modern working environment for our extremely talented staff with ample car parking, social and collaboration spaces and a customer experience centre where we can showcase our solutions.”

Asset and Development Manager for Robert Hitchins Ltd, John Jones, said: “This is yet another example of how we can work closely with companies like L3 Harris in supporting their growth plans by providing a bespoke property solution suited to their operational needs.

“A collaborative working relationship with L3Harris in the UK and USA, coupled with early engagement with Tewkesbury Borough Council, enabled us to secure planning consent for the car park which was critical to L3Harris’ continued occupation in Tewkesbury. We’re delighted to have them on board.”

Robert Hitchins, based at Boddington in Gloucestershire, is one of the leading property developers and investors in the South West and South Wales. It provides the full development process from site acquisition and planning through to development and investment.