Council and MP press for a ‘Defence Growth Zone’ to bring ‘thousands of new jobs to Telford’
Thousands of new jobs could be created in Telford as part of ambitious plans put forward to the MOD by the council leader and MP.
Telford & Wrekin Council Leader, Councillor Lee Carter, and Telford MP Shaun Davis, have met with Luke Pollard, Minister for Defence along with other senior representatives from central government to reinforce Telford’s position as a national hub for defence.
The pair want to see the borough designated a "Defence Growth Zone", a move they say would reinforce Telford’s position as a national leader in defence innovation and advanced manufacturing.
The meeting highlighted an ambition for Telford to be central to national plans for future investment in Defence. This forms part of a wider strategy to deliver cutting-edge defence facilities, ensuring the area remains at the heart of the UK’s defence capability.
It also follows the announcement by Rheinmetall that they are to create a new facility in Telford by 2027 creating up to 400 new jobs.
Shaun Davies said: “I am incredibly proud to see our town taking such a prominent role in the future of Britain’s defence industry.
“Defence is an engine for growth, both locally and nationally, and the commitment shown by Telford & Wrekin Council alongside our partners in Government and industry demonstrates the scale of our ambition.
“The prospect of establishing a Defence Growth Zone represents a major opportunity—not only for our local economy but for the UK’s wider defence capability.
“By building on the success of organisations like RBSL, our highly skilled manufacturing base, and other significant defence infrastructure already here, we can secure thousands of quality jobs and ensure Telford continues to lead in innovation and advanced engineering.
“I was delighted to secure this meeting with the Minister, following his recent visit to Telford.”
Councillor Lee Carter added: “Telford is a borough of makers with a proud track record in advanced manufacturing and defence. Today’s discussions reaffirm our shared ambition to modernise MOD Donnington, strengthen our defence cluster, and deliver thousands of new jobs for local people. It was encouraging to have such constructive conversations, supported by Telford MP Shaun Davies.”
The pair said the meeting focused on securing ministerial backing for key defence-related initiatives, with next steps including follow-up meetings, detailed project development and funding applications to ensure "Telford’s proposals are firmly embedded in national planning".
Together, the MP and council leader reaffirmed their commitment to putting Telford firmly on the map as a national centre for defence growth—ensuring local people benefit from new investment, innovation and opportunity.
Shaun Davies said: “By taking our case directly to the top off the MOD, we are making sure ministers understand the scale of opportunity here.
“We have outstanding defence organisations with hardworking and skilled men and women and a first-class supply chain in our town that I am very proud of and I know we can do even more. I am committed to ensuring Telford’s voice is heard at the highest level.”
Defence Minister Luke Pollard MP added: “The new Rheinmetall facility represents a major step forward for the UK, and it’s fantastic to see Telford leading the way.
"The government is determined to ensure that Defence delivers as an engine for growth; meaning new jobs, new skills, new investment and new opportunities and I know Shaun is working hard to stand up for Telford to ensure Telford gets its fair share of investment.”
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