A joint venture between Galliford Try and Lagan Construction has completed runway resurfacing work at RAF Marham in East Anglia.

The scheme is part of a £250 million Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) programme of investment at the station and involves resurfacing about 90% of the airfield operating surfaces.

The 1,855-metre long runway was resurfaced with the help of two batching plants, which were built to prepare the specific asphalt and concrete needed for the new surface. Preparing the materials on site increased efficiency.

Rob Dawson, DIO's Principal Project Manager, said: "The completion of the resurfacing of the secondary runway is one a series of milestones for the work DIO and our contractors are undertaking to prepare RAF Marham to be the main operating base for the new F-35B aircraft.

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"Along with work being completed by our colleagues at Defence Equipment and Support, this investment will transform RAF Marham with a host of new and upgraded facilities for the aircraft and the men and women who will operate them."

James Aikman, Project Director, Galliford Try Lagan Construction, said: "The Galliford Try Lagan Construction joint venture is delighted to have successfully reached this important stage of the project. We have a well-established relationship with DIO and this, combined with our experience of complex airside work, augurs very well for the remainder of the programme."

Further work to be undertaken at RAF Marham include the construction of three vertical landing pads to enable F-35 Lightning aircraft to use their vertical landing capability and a squadron headquarters for 617 Squadron (The Dambusters). Other work includes a high voltage power upgrade, refurbishment of 12 Hardened Aircraft Shelters and a small gym and canteen as well as a hangar, offices and technical facilities for 207 Squadron.

(LM)