Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme

The Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP) will transform how British Antarctic Survey enables and supports science on the continent. Commissioned by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), this long-term programme will enable a world-leading capability to ensure that Britain remains at the forefront of climate, biodiversity and ocean research in the Polar Regions.

Rothera Research Station is the UK Antarctic hub for polar science. Over the next decade, Rothera Research Station will be upgraded to ensure its facilities keep the UK at the forefront of climate, biodiversity and ocean research. This comprehensive modernisation includes a new wharf for the RRS Sir David Attenborough polar research ship, a new scientific support and operations facility, the Discovery Building and redevelopment of the hangar and runway to support deep field activities, renewable energy installations, and infrastructure upgrades across the site.

AIMP is a major Government investment in polar infrastructure which will serve generations of UK and international scientists to come.

So far, the investment has delivered:

one of the world’s most advanced polar research vessels, RRS Sir David Attenborough

improved wharfs at King Edward Point and Rothera Research Stations in Antarctica

upgraded facilities and renewable energy at Bird Island Research Station in Antarctica

an award-winning extended and resurfaced runway, securing continued access to the region and the deep field for the UK and international polar science community

The Discovery Building, a new, purpose-built scientific support and operations facility, is due to be completed in 2025

Watch this short film to find out why we are modernising in Antarctica:

Award winning partnership

The AIMP programme has recently won two national awards: Project of the Year (£10-25 million) at the National Building & Construction Awards for the runway resurfacing and lighting project and Client of the Year at the Association of Consultancy and Engineering Awards.