Connector Manufacturing Facility Begins Construction

Harwin has commenced construction on a new £30 million ($38 million) manufacturing facility in Portsmouth for its connector technology, set for completion in 2026.

The 7,459 m² facility is being created to add to existing manufacturing capacity in order to meet growing global demand for its leading high-reliability and industrial connectors.

The state-of-the-art electronics manufacturing facility incorporates multiple design initiatives that minimize the environmental impact of Harwin’s operations. This includes the use of rooftop solar, with 388 high-efficiency solar panels generating a forecast 244,000 kWh annually. This reduces the sites CO₂ emissions by approximately 32 tons per year, the equivalent of planting 1,471 trees. 

Minimizing land usage and the building’s effect on the local environment were also key considerations during the planning phase, with the facility using a novel multi-level design that span four floors.

The building also meets stringent BREEAM sustainability standards. BREEAM is the world’s leading science-based suite of validation and certification systems for sustainable buildings and has been sought as part of Harwin’s commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing.

Conscious steps have also been made to reduce the impact of travelling to work. This includes a significantly higher than average bike to car parking ratio, with more than a third of all parking spaces dedicated to bikes. Electric vehicle charging points will also be available, encouraging more eco-friendly travel choices.

Following its completion, the world-leading manufacturing site will bolster Harwin’s ability to serve key markets, including aerospace, defense, industrial automation, and advanced electronics. 

This doubles manufacturing capacity in Portsmouth, and the expansion will allow Harwin to continue delivering high-quality interconnect solutions while ensuring supply chain resilience for its customers worldwide.

Leading the way on social value, contractor Knights Brown have committed to a substantial social value plan with the aim of bringing people and communities together to support economic growth.

Initiatives will include working with local secondary schools, recruiting apprentices, volunteering at key community projects and attending local STEM events.

Jon Churchill, Harwin’s Operations Director at Harwin, commented, “The construction of this new facility is a major milestone for Harwin, strengthening our ability to support innovation and meet growing customer demands. 

“By integrating sustainability into our design and operations, we are not only expanding our manufacturing capabilities but also setting a new benchmark for responsible industrial development in the UK.”

James Ashley, Knights Brown Divisional Building Operations Manager, added, “The facility will be built using the highest quality materials and market-leading design, this will enable Harwin to really maximize their production capability and meet future market needs.

“We are delighted to be appointed as the contractor to carry out the design and build works of this iconic building and look forward to working collaboratively with Harwin and other stakeholders to deliver this key project.”