The Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood has entered an exciting new chapter with the commencement of construction on a remarkable £300+ million extension. This monumental project, which began with the pouring of the first of around 650 concrete foundation pads, marks the beginning of a transformative phase in the marque’s history. Less than a year after receiving planning permission, the foundations for the new Exterior Surface Centre (Paint Shop) are already being laid, bringing Rolls-Royce’s ambitious vision to life.
Nestled in the heart of the West Sussex countryside, the Goodwood site is not just the birthplace of Rolls-Royce motor cars; it is also a testament to the brand’s commitment to blending innovation with its surroundings. The iconic location, which opened its doors in 2003, has long been lauded for its harmonious integration into the landscape, with its vast living roof and the careful selection of materials that keep it virtually invisible from the outside world. The new extension, while expanding capacity, has been designed with the same meticulous care to ensure it remains a respectful addition to both the facility and its natural environment.
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, expressed his excitement for the project’s progression: “Securing planning permission to extend the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood was the culmination of a detailed process of consultation and partnership with the local community and relevant agencies. I’m delighted that, in less than 12 months, we have begun the construction phase with the installation of the first foundation pads. This is a highly significant and exciting moment; it means we’re firmly on track to deliver this landmark project on schedule, enabling our future prosperity and immense economic contribution to the region and ‘UK PLC’.”
The scale and ambition of the extension are truly remarkable. At 40,000 square metres, the new building will house the cutting-edge Surface Finish Centre, as well as providing much-needed space for Rolls-Royce’s ever-expanding Bespoke activities. This expansion is a response to the growing demand for personalised, technically sophisticated commissions. The Bespoke division, a hallmark of Rolls-Royce’s commitment to luxury and individuality, has seen record growth in 2024, driven by clients seeking one-of-a-kind creations that showcase the marque’s unrivaled craftsmanship. The new facilities will support these intricate requests, which have reached their peak in the realm of Coachbuild projects.
But the investment in Rolls-Royce’s future is not just about increasing production capacity. The £300 million extension also reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The facility has been designed with the utmost sensitivity to its location within the South Downs National Park, with the building itself carefully integrated into the landscape. The groundworks include landscaped bunds that will screen the site from view, and the project is expected to deliver a 12% biodiversity net gain, with new planting and upgrades to local footpaths enhancing the natural environment.
Rolls-Royce’s expansion plans are further evidence of the brand’s enduring success as a key player in British manufacturing. The site employs more than 2,500 people directly, with a wider supply chain supporting an additional 7,500 jobs. According to a study by the London School of Economics (LSE), Rolls-Royce has contributed over £4 billion to the UK economy and continues to make an annual contribution exceeding £500 million. This investment will not only bolster Rolls-Royce’s position as a leader in the luxury automotive sector but also secure its role as a major economic force in the UK for years to come.
The extension to the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood is not just a physical expansion of the brand’s capabilities; it is a powerful statement about Rolls-Royce’s future. As the construction phase continues, the first foundation pads signal the beginning of a new era for the marque—one that builds on its heritage while embracing the opportunities of the future. With the careful design, meticulous planning, and unwavering dedication to excellence that have long been the hallmark of Rolls-Royce, this project will undoubtedly elevate the brand and its impact on both the global luxury market and the UK economy.
