Chubb Announces Plans to Develop New High-Performance Blackburn Campus
Chubb is investing in a significant redevelopment programme to transform its Blackburn office campus into an advanced, integrated and sustainable space for Chubb and UK affiliates of Otis and Carrier. Chubb, a leading provider of security and life safety solutions, Otis, the world’s largest maintainer of people-moving products, and Carrier, the world’s leader in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions, are all part of UTC Building & Industrial Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX)
The project, which will involve the demolition of three existing Chubb buildings on the Shadsworth Business Park and temporary relocation of employees whilst work is undertaken, will result in a modern and a high-performance building for 500 employees across business support functions from all three brands. It will also be the new home for Chubb Community Care and Chubb Systems, including their research and development and engineering teams.
Upon completion in 2016, the new building will serve as a showcase for the capabilities of all three brands. “The new office building will be equipped with advanced solutions from Chubb Fire & Security, Otis and Carrier,” said Alastair Reynolds, managing director, Chubb Fire & Security. “Together, as UTC Building & Industrial Systems, we are the world leader in building solutions, and this building will embody that distinction – it will be an environmentally responsible, smart and energy-efficient workplace.”
Graeme Heanan, managing director, systems, Chubb Fire & Security, will lead the development of the facilities and said the shared workspace is designed to result in synergies and enhanced integration among the brands. “We’re combining our skills in designing fire and security systems, access control, building automation, heating, ventilating, air conditioning and lifts with the building design expertise from our architecture and construction partners to provide a work environment that supports our employees’ well-being and productivity,” said Heanan. “Ultimately this will enable us to better serve our customers.”
“It’s a major investment by a global business and means a long-term commitment to the Borough with all that entails including new jobs for residents,” said Kate Hollern, leader, Blackburn and Darwen district council. “It also shows the confidence that industry-leading brands such as Chubb have in deciding to make the Borough their home. We have worked closely with Chubb to secure this deal, which underscores the Council’s commitment to working with business to deliver wider prosperity now and in the future.”
“After two years of planning, we are delighted to confirm our commitment to the redevelopment of the Chubb Blackburn campus,” said Craig Forbes, finance director, Chubb Fire & Security. “Our new, high-performance building will benefit not only our employees, but with the integration of some of our back-office operations across Chubb, Otis and Carrier, it will build a foundation to support the continued growth of UTC Building & Industrial Systems in the UK.”
Construction on the facilities is expected to begin later this year.