Understand
Defence firm proposes converting former Mossmorran chemical plant into weapons component factory
Overview
Defence contractor TBG International Limited has submitted a pre-application screening request to Fife Council to transform the decommissioned Mossmorran chemical plant in Fife into an energetics manufacturing facility. The Fife Ethylene Plant ceased production earlier after 40 years, affecting over 400 staff, with ExxonMobil expecting decommissioning to take until 2028. The proposed development would involve building process buildings and storage magazines for explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics, and will require an environmental impact assessment.
Key points
- Defence contractor TBG International Limited has submitted plans to convert the former Mossmorran chemical plant into a weapons components manufacturing facility.
- The Fife Ethylene Plant ceased production in February after 40 years, affecting more than 400 staff.
- ExxonMobil estimates it will take until 2028 to fully decommission the site and make it safe for dismantling.
- The proposed energetics manufacturing facility would produce explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics.
- Fife Council informed the Hampshire-based firm that the development will require an environmental impact assessment.
- Both the Scottish and UK governments have previously pledged £9m investments to support the workforce and secure the site's future.