Lack of fibre is putting the brakes on UK’s data centre expansion, says study
New research from Neos Networks suggests that 82% of data centre operators in the UK
Britain’s digital future depends on strong, reliable networks. For years, many of the steel structures behind that infrastructure were manufactured overseas; the question now is where they should be made.
Where those structures are made matters. Choosing UK manufacturing is a practical strategy that delivers supply-chain resilience, proven quality, skilled jobs, and long-term value. With a UK supply base, design, manufacturing, and site teams work closer to one another, respond faster and turn design changes into production quickly. UK facilities also operate to the highest recognised standards, so quality is visible and traceable from material through to final inspection.
Jobs, skills and community impact
Hutchinson, a Widnes-based manufacturer of complex steel structures for telecoms and other critical sectors, shows what a modern UK factory can deliver. The company employs around 200 people, contributes more than £9m in local salaries, pays a real living wage (average c. £46k), and has a highly experienced, long-serving workforce, with over a third of the team serving 10+ years. Eleven apprentices are currently in training, and Hutchinson is a proud member of the 5% Club (a UK employer movement whose members commit to having at least 5% of their workforce in “earn-and-learn” roles, including apprentices, graduates and sponsored students, within five years).
STEM outreach with local schools, work-experience programmes, and wider community partnerships help Hutchinson nurture the next generation of engineers from the surrounding communities. Students get exposure to real engineering environments, teachers receive curriculum support, and residents benefit from upskilling initiatives. This builds a talent pipeline that strengthens the regional economy and shows how telecoms investment flows back into the community.
Local supply also supports sustainability. Shorter logistics cut transport emissions and make progress easier to measure. Hutchinson has reduced carbon by 27% since 2023 and is committed to net zero by 2040.
Inside the factory: Standards, speed and control
Hutchinson operates to UKCA and CE requirements, including EN1090-2 Execution Class 4 for the most critical work. Across 12,000 m² of manufacturing space, robotic welding, pre-build jigs and digital quality control with live KPI boards drive right-first-time, lean production methods. End-to-end control of design, fabrication, finishing and pre-assembly means engineering changes can be adopted quickly as designs evolve.
Welding compliance is led by an in-house International Welding Engineer and Responsible Welding Coordinator, with certified NDT capability (VT, MPI and LPI) embedded at key stages. Dimensional accuracy is assured via dedicated jigs and rigorous in-process checks. Total quality management runs from mill certificates to final inspection. For long-term performance, Hutchinson’s patented root systems and foundation details anchor structures for stability and whole-life value.
When clients choose UK-made structures, they aren’t just buying steelwork. They’re investing in predictable lead times, accountable quality, and skilled British jobs, from apprentices on the shop floor to specialist weld engineers. Every order strengthens the domestic supply chain, keeps value in our communities, and helps us build a better, more resilient network for the UK. That is the heart of our vision: A better future, engineered together.
Where should Britain’s telecoms structures be made? Here at home, for speed, quality, skills, and lasting community value.
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