We're using Sunderland-sourced steel to improve transport in the Falkland Islands

Adderstone Group, a North East-based property and regeneration business, has expanded its footprint with a new business in the Falkland Islands.

Adderstone Construction (Falkland Islands) Ltd, headquartered in Port Stanley, has commenced work on its first project- the overhaul and recladding of the existing aircraft hangar at FIGAS (Falkland Islands Government Air Service).

The £1.5 million project, funded by the Falkland Islands Government, will ensure the continued efficient operation of the islands' air taxi service.

To deliver the work, Adderstone is combining expertise from both the Falkland Islands and the North East of England.

Structural steel sourced from Sunderland through Harry Marsh Engineers Limited has already arrived on the islands and is being used in the project- a tangible link between the two regions.

That connection is nothing new: over a century ago, the Lady Elizabeth shipwreck, now one of the Falkland Islands’ most recognisable landmarks, was built by Robert Thompson Jr. and Sons and launched in Sunderland.

FIGAS is vital to island life, connecting communities across more than 750 islands.

Its fleet of small aircraft transports children to school, sheepdogs to the vets, supports local farmers as well as providing everyday passenger, freight and emergency flights.

The hangar refurbishment will play a crucial role in maintaining the reliability and safety of this long standing, vital service.

This project marks the beginning of a broader programme of investment and infrastructure improvement in the Falkland Islands.

Adderstone Construction (Falkland Islands) Ltd is already tendering for further contracts, including accommodation for offshore workers, road construction, and public facilities such as a local school and the Falkland Islands hospital.

Directors Martyn Wallbank and Stephen Lumsdon, who bring experience from previously living and working in the Falklands, are now based on the islands to provide on the ground leadership as the company grows its presence.

They are joined by Office Manager, Natasha Greenland, a fifth-generation Islander whose local knowledge and connections strengthen Adderstone’s commitment to the Falkland Islands community.

Martyn Wallbank, Director of Adderstone’s Falkland Islands division, said: “We’re on the ground here, part of the community and getting stuck in alongside local people.

“It’s not just about delivering projects- it’s about building relationships and contributing to the islands’ future in a meaningful way.”

Ian Baggett, Founder and CEO of Adderstone Group, added: “The ties between the North East and the Falkland Islands run deep. We love the cohesion and resilience that seems to be present in communities that have faced hardship. The shared purpose motives us to deliver impactful work."

The Falklands’ economy is small but diverse- anchored in commercial fishing, tourism and agriculture, with future growth expected in oil and infrastructure.

As development continues, demand for skilled, reliable construction partners is rising. Adderstone Falkland Islands aims to meet that need as a long term contributor to the islands’ future.