The Methil yard, known for its role in testing and manufacturing wind turbine components, has received a lifeline following a significant buyout of shipbuilder Harland & Wolff, safeguarding

350 jobs in Scotland.

The UK government announced that the Belfast-based company, which also operates fabrication yards in Arnish on the Isle of Lewis and Methil in Fife, has been acquired by Spain’s state-owned shipbuilder Navantia. The deal, backed by the UK government, secures 1,000 jobs across the UK.

Trade unions have welcomed the acquisition but emphasized the importance of securing new contracts to maintain steady work at the yards.

Arnish, near Stornoway, was established in the 1970s and remains a vital employer in the region.

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray highlighted the significance of the deal, stating:
“Navantia's investment not only secures the future of all four UK yards but also supports UK shipbuilding and fabrication, which are critical to our defence and clean energy sectors.”

Matt Roberts, national officer for the GMB union, described the buyout as a positive move for retaining manufacturing in the UK. However, he cautioned that consistent work would be necessary to ensure the long-term viability of the yards.
“Without a steady drumbeat of work, these yards will continue to struggle. GMB will fight to ensure that doesn’t happen,” Roberts said.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham praised the efforts to secure the workers’ futures, explaining that the union worked tirelessly with government officials, employers, and potential buyers to reach a resolution.
“This is a good news story that offers real hope for the future. Unite will always do whatever it takes to fight for workers’ interests,” Graham said.

A History of Resilience and Innovation

The Scottish yards were previously owned by BiFab before being acquired by Harland & Wolff. Both Arnish and Methil have played key roles in producing wind farm turbine components.

Arnish, established in 1974 with backing from the Norwegian company Olsen's, initially worked on constructing large barges and later transitioned to repurposing rigs for the North Sea oil and gas industry. Methil, with its long shipbuilding history, was notably used in 2013 to test what was then the world’s largest and most powerful wind turbine.

Despite their importance to local economies, both sites have faced frequent challenges, including threats of closure and job losses. The latest buyout offers renewed hope for their future as key players in shipbuilding and renewable energy. Photo by Mkooiman, Wikimedia commons.