Bournemouth: MAG Property takes AIM and lands deal for new facility at airport business park

Aviation Business Park at Bournemouth Airport is in line for an £11 million boost, with the construction of a new 160,000 sq ft advanced manufacturing unit for a specialist aerospace interiors company.

MAG Property, part of Manchester Airports Group (MAG), owner of Bournemouth Airport, has agreed a deal for the new facility with AIM Aviation, which is a specialist designer and manufacturer of aircraft cabin interior products. AIM works with many of the world's airlines and aircraft manufacturers creating unique interior products.

The new purpose-built facility will provide AIM Aviation's cabin interiors division with 30% additional capacity to meet expanding demand for its premium aircraft interiors.

Ian Girling, chief executive of Dorset Chamber, said: “This is another welcome boost for the local economy. MAG and Bournemouth Airport are to be applauded for attracting this significant investment. It further demonstrates the airport's increasing importance as a leading regional business hub and an important driver of the Dorset economy.”

A new dedicated test facility will also support AIM’s R&D operation, specialising in utilising new composite materials to create lighter aircraft interiors and more environmentally-efficient aircraft.

Paul Knight, managing director of Bournemouth Airport, added: “Not only does this announcement bring a welcome boost to the local job market, but it also represents a sign of returning confidence in the airport itself and demonstrates the strength of Aviation Business Park as a place to do business.

“We recognise the role of the airport and its business park as one of the most important employment locations in south east Dorset and backed by the local authorities, we aim to strengthen the significant contribution it makes to the local economy and provide further new opportunities for local businesses to expand.”

Construction work is scheduled for completion by the end of summer 2015, when AIM Aviation employees will move from existing smaller regional premises.

Colin Thornton, MD of AIM Aviation's cabin interiors division, said it was part of an overall progression strategy: “Having the whole team under one roof in one of the most advanced facilities of its kind in Europe will greatly enhance our ability to meet customers' demand for reduced time-to-market and best value.

“In addition, this exciting project will allow AIM Aviation to have a modern facility in keeping with the high quality of product it supplies.”