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The new owners of Birkenhead's historic shipyard have pledged to make shipbuilding a major part of the town's future, not just its past.
Balaena, a maritime engineering company based in London, acquired the formley named Cammell Laird site in June 2026. The deal was reportedly valued at £150 million. Earlier this month, the shipyard hosted Birkenhead and Tranmere MP Alison McGovern, to talk all things shipbuilding, defence, and the future of the maritime industry.
A Balaena spokesman said: "For generations, shipbuilding has helped shape Birkenhead – its people, communities, skills and character. That heritage remains visible throughout the town, but shipbuilding is not simply part of Birkenhead's past."
The company has said bringing more shipbuilding, ship repairs, and engineering works to Birkenhead can support economic growth, skilled employment, and apprenticeships.
The company said bringing more shipbuilding, ship repair and engineering work to Birkenhead has the potential to support skilled employment, apprenticeships, local supply chains and long-term economic growth.
Cammell Laird built the new Mersey Ferry, The Royal Daffodil that had its first official voyage last month after a trial run back in May.
Balaena recently acquired APCL Group, a marine engineering business operating several shipyards including A&P Tyne, Cammell Laird and A&P Falmouth. The deal combines APCL's yards with Balaena's existing facilities in Gibraltar and Padstow, Cornwall, creating a group operating 12 dry docks.
During the visit, Ms McGovern met with group chief executive Simon Gillett, chair Alan Donnelly and executive director John Furmston. As reported by the Wirral Globe, discussions centered around how the shipyard can help UK shipbuilding and national defence.
Also discussed at the visit was Birkenhead's heritage and its importance concerning the bid for Birkenhead to become the UK's first Town of Culture.
Balaena apparently sees the vision, because they highlighted by providing opportunities for skilled workers, they can support a new generation entering the shipbuilding industry. They also thanked Ms McGovern for the visit and conversation about Birkenhead's future in shipbuilding.
