THE defence minister on Monday launched the next phase of building work at Defence Science and Technology Laboratory's (Dstl) in Porton Down.
The site is part of the multi-million-pound Helios project, which will see 650 members of staff move from Fort Halstead in Kent.
Philip Dunne was given a tour of one of the new magazines and spoke to members of staff about the defence work undertaken by Dstl.
The new buildings will allow scientists to conduct trials which range from testing protective equipment to carrying out forensic analysis for the police.
The minister with Salisbury MP John Glen and Leader of Wiltshire Council Jane Scott
During his visit, Mr Dunne announced the second phase of building work, which will see the construction of explosive processing facilities.
He said: “The Ministry of Defence is investing £115 million in project Helios, including developing modern facilities here in Wiltshire, a clear demonstration of the importance we attach to the work that Dstl carries out for the defence and security of our nation.”
Stage one has just been completed, with 20 new magazines housed in reinforced concrete bunkers.
Dstl's chief executive Jonathan Lyle said the company wanted to focus on using Salisbury's new University Technical College (UTC) to feed new scientific jobs.
He said: “We are delighted to be playing our part in supporting Salisbury and South Wiltshire's vision for a world class science and engineering hub.”
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