Blatchford to boost manufacturing capabilities with £15m state-of-the-art operations centre
Prosthetic technology manufacturer Blatchford, a supplier of rehabilitation services to the NHS, is investing £15 million to create a state-of-the-art operations centre of excellence in Basingstoke.
The site is expected to be fully operational by the end of the year. Blatchford, which has been headquartered in Basingstoke since the 1960s, said the development underlines its long-standing commitment to the town and will significantly boost its manufacturing and innovation capabilities.
The 70,000-square-foot operations centre will replace Blatchford’s existing manufacturing facility, which had become constrained by its size, and will double the company’s current operational footprint. It will bring together its manufacturing, assembly, and distribution teams that are currently split across two sites.
The centre is expected to increase Blatchford’s machining capacity by 50 per cent and improve its overall production efficiency by 30 per cent. It will focus exclusively on prosthetics; the company’s orthotic and specialist seating products will continue to be manufactured at its dedicated production facility.
The 180 employees who will be based at the new site will benefit from enhanced facilities, including a modern staff canteen, an on-site gym, improved parking, and an upgraded working environment designed to support well-being and professional development.
All existing roles will be retained, with upskilling opportunities provided to operate the latest state-of-the-art machinery. The new facility also provides the capacity to create further new jobs.
Blatchford’s investment also reflects its commitment to sustainability. The new building has been designed based on the highest environmental standards (EPC A+), supporting the company’s ambition to achieve net zero five years ahead of the UK’s 2050 target. The roof is fitted with an advanced solar panel system, which will be used to power the site whenever possible.
Additionally, the facility will operate without the use of gas, relying instead on advanced air source heat pumps to maintain a comfortable working environment. Waste management will be fully integrated into site operations to prioritize waste reduction.
Paul Roberts, CEO of Blatchford, commented: “By increasing our manufacturing capabilities, we can accelerate innovation, improve accessibility, and empower more individuals to lead independent, active lives.
“This is a pivotal step in unlocking an exciting future for Blatchford—one that ensures we continue to push the boundaries of possibility for prosthetic users, while driving UK innovation on a global scale.”
Founded in 1890, the company employs over 900 people worldwide. Blatchford was recently appointed to run the wheelchair service for the NHS Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board (ICB).
