26/08/2026
Sunshine, a packed marquee, plenty of laughter and a well-earned opportunity to reflect on an incredible journey.
Last month, colleagues from Wates Construction and SES came together in Sunderland, alongside members of the Wates Enterprise Board and Executive Committee, to celebrate the people behind the AESC UK project and recognise the dedication, resilience and teamwork that have helped deliver the UK's first battery gigafactory over the last four years, supporting the future of UK manufacturing and creating a lasting legacy for the North East.
Colleagues heard from Chairman Tim Wates, Chief Executive Eoghan O'Lionaird, and SES Technology and Wates Advanced Manufacturing leaders Eddie Tribe and Chris Catterick, who reflected on the challenges overcome, partnerships built and the incredible contribution of everyone involved. Joining the celebrations were Executive Managing Directors Steff Battle and Rob Clifford.
Following the celebration, members of the Wates Enterprise Board and Executive Committee joined guided tours of the facility, led by the project team. The tours offered a first-hand view of the scale, complexity and quality of the UK's first state-of-the-art battery gigafactory, bringing to life the remarkable journey from a blank sheet of paper to one of the most significant advanced manufacturing facilities in the country.
While the afternoon was a chance to celebrate how far we've come, it was also an opportunity to look ahead. The experience, expertise and relationships developed through the AESC UK project are already helping to shape future opportunities across the advanced manufacturing and data centre sectors.
A proud day for everyone involved and a fitting celebration of the people who have helped turn an ambitious vision into reality.
Special thanks to The Duck House Pantry for helping make the afternoon one to remember.
Find out more about this project: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0xR5q70
