TODS Manufacturing Centre

Expanding world-class marine defence manufacturing on Portland

Client

Tods Technology

Location

Portland, Dorset

RIBA Work Stages

Stages 1-6

Services

Town Planning, Architecture

Overview

From its base on the Isle of Portland, Tods Technology delivers specialist sonar and acoustic technologies to naval organisations around the world. To support the next stage of the company's growth, BoonBrown is helping deliver a new 4,396m² manufacturing facility that will expand production capacity and enhance operational efficiency. Providing architecture, planning, landscape architecture and Principal Designer services, BoonBrown has supported the project from concept through to construction. Once complete, the facility will strengthen Portland's reputation for advanced engineering and innovation while creating the space needed for Tods Technology's continued success.

Project progress

Construction is progressing well on Tods Technology's new Sonar Dome Manufacturing Centre, a landmark investment that will enhance the company's presence on the Isle of Portland and support the next chapter of its growth. Designed to accommodate the manufacture of world-class sonar and acoustic technologies, the new facility will provide the specialist space needed to expand production, improve operational efficiency and meet increasing demand. Located alongside the existing facility, the development has been carefully planned to create a connected and highly efficient manufacturing campus. Beyond the building itself, the project includes improved site access, additional parking, cycle facilities and ecological enhancements, creating a workplace that supports both people and the surrounding environment.

Supporting future growth and skilled employment

More than an expansion project, the new facility represents a significant investment in innovation, skilled employment and advanced engineering on Portland. Once complete, it will strengthen Tods Technology's ability to deliver cutting-edge marine defence technologies worldwide while supporting economic growth and reinforcing the island's reputation as a centre for manufacturing excellence.

Project Timeline

Q4 2026 | Operational commissioning target

The new Sonar Dome Centre of Excellence is scheduled to become operational during Q4 2026, providing an additional 48,000 sq ft of production space and significantly increasing Tods Technology’s sonar dome manufacturing capability.

July 2026 | Structural frame completed

The building reached a significant construction milestone with completion of the internal steel structure. Roof construction commenced shortly afterwards as the project progressed towards enclosure.

June 2025 | Construction commences

Works began on site to deliver the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, expanding Tods Technology’s existing production campus and supporting future operational growth.

May 2025 | Full planning permission granted

Full planning permission had been secured for the new 48,000 sq ft Sonar Dome Manufacturing Centre, representing a major investment in advanced manufacturing capacity on Portland

January 2024 | Project design development

BoonBrown commissioned to develop proposals for a new purpose-built Sonar Dome Manufacturing Centre on Portland, creating a facility designed to support specialist production, testing and future business growth.

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Mike Payne

Business Development Director

Tim Shepperd

Technical Director | Architect

Nick Francis

Technical Associate