Out-of-Use Barrow Dock Gas Works Could Be Sold to BAE Systems
An out of use gas works site at Ramsden Dock in Barrow could be removed from the Port of Barrow and sold to BAE Systems.
The plan relates to the former gas condensate works. Including a revetment and jetty that were previously used as a gas transfer site. Associated British Ports has applied to the Marine Management Organisation for a Harbour Revision Order, which would allow the harbour facilities to close.
If approved, the area would stop being part of the Port of Barrow. Associated British Ports would no longer have statutory harbour authority duties for that part of Ramsden Dock. Public rights of navigation around the jetty would end while the jetty remains in place.
Why the Site Is Being Considered
The former gas condensate works are no longer needed for harbour use, according to documents submitted in support of the application.
The supporting statement says the Harbour Revision Order would allow the former gas transfer site to be disposed of and put to “more productive use”. It also says the site could be used for BAE Systems’ non-port-related development, with potential benefits for the Port of Barrow by strengthening BAE’s long-term connection to the port.
The documents state that the former gas condensate works are no longer used for port operations. And that there is no real prospect of the site being used that way again because of infrastructure limits and market conditions.
Part of Barrow’s Changing Dock Area
The proposal comes as Barrow’s dockland area continues to play a major role in the town’s future.
BAE Systems describes its Barrow site as home to the largest shipyard in the UK and a centre for submarine design and construction. The company also says Barrow is home to its Submarines Academy for Skills and Knowledge. Supporting the next generation of engineering workers.
For Barrow, any change involving dockside land is likely to attract attention. The town’s economy is closely tied to the shipyard, the port and long-term defence work. While local residents may also want clear information about future use, access, safety and planning controls.
Order Would Not Approve Building Work
The current Harbour Revision Order would not give BAE Systems permission to build on the site.
The public notice makes clear that the proposed order would not authorise construction, alteration of a project, or grant development consent. Any future development would need to go through the relevant planning process separately.
This means the order is mainly about the legal status of the harbour land. It would close the harbour facilities, remove them from the Port of Barrow, and clear the way for the site to be transferred.
Public Can Comment on the Proposal
People can make objections or representations to the Marine Management Organisation.
The draft order and supporting documents can be inspected at Barrow Port Office, Ramsey Way, Barrow-in-Furness, during reasonable hours until the end of the 42-day consultation period. Comments must be made in writing, quote reference HRO/2025/00003, and explain the grounds for the objection or representation.
If an objection is made and not withdrawn, the Marine Management Organisation may decide to hold an inquiry before a final decision is reached.
What Happens Next?
The Marine Management Organisation will consider the Harbour Revision Order application. Before deciding whether it should be made.
If it is approved, Associated British Ports would be able to close the former gas condensate works as harbour facilities. The land could then move towards transfer and private use by BAE Systems.
For now, the proposal does not confirm exactly what BAE would do with the site. However, the documents make clear that the former gas works are no longer seen as useful port facilities and are being lined up for a new role linked to Barrow’s wider industrial future.
