I've been catalogueing some of my photos today in preparation for eventually doing my own website, and came across these from February 2008 of BAE systems in Rochester. This place is now mostly rubble, so thought you might like to see them. The place wasn't that interesting, but it looks better in B/W 
A little History;
BAE systems Rochester was primerily involved in the manufacture of Electronics and Integrated solutions. The buildings are part of Rochester Airport, and the site was used by RAF flying schools and the Shorts Brothers prior to being used by BAE systems.
The older part of the complex dates from the 1930's and was probably built when No 23 Elementary and Reserve Flying Training School took over use of the site in 1938. The newer part was probably built in when GEC (comprising Marconi and instrument makers Elliot Automation) took over use of Rochester Airport in 1979. BAE aquired both of these companies in the following years, and continued operations at Rochester until the Airport was vacated by them in 2004. Ownership of the entire site then reverted back to Medway Council.
Rochester airport itself is now run on a care and maintenance basis by a group of entusiasts, who are currently negotiating with Medway council over a long term lease for the site, the current short term arrangement is due to expire next year. The buildings ajoining Maidstone Road have not been used since BAE vacated the site, and they are currently being demolished. The land is set for redevelopment. As you can see there's not a lot left, but it was still interesting to look round none the less.
There's a few bits of quipment left
but the place was very trashed
Lots of long corridors
Poster on a wall
Between 2 of the buildings
Family of electric panels.
The place had a mahoosive electricity supply, this was one of many disribution points.
Old computer wiring cupboard
Big empty factory floor
Warning!
Thanks for looking
Maniac.
A little History;
BAE systems Rochester was primerily involved in the manufacture of Electronics and Integrated solutions. The buildings are part of Rochester Airport, and the site was used by RAF flying schools and the Shorts Brothers prior to being used by BAE systems.
The older part of the complex dates from the 1930's and was probably built when No 23 Elementary and Reserve Flying Training School took over use of the site in 1938. The newer part was probably built in when GEC (comprising Marconi and instrument makers Elliot Automation) took over use of Rochester Airport in 1979. BAE aquired both of these companies in the following years, and continued operations at Rochester until the Airport was vacated by them in 2004. Ownership of the entire site then reverted back to Medway Council.
Rochester airport itself is now run on a care and maintenance basis by a group of entusiasts, who are currently negotiating with Medway council over a long term lease for the site, the current short term arrangement is due to expire next year. The buildings ajoining Maidstone Road have not been used since BAE vacated the site, and they are currently being demolished. The land is set for redevelopment. As you can see there's not a lot left, but it was still interesting to look round none the less.
There's a few bits of quipment left
but the place was very trashed
Lots of long corridors
Poster on a wall
Between 2 of the buildings
Family of electric panels.
The place had a mahoosive electricity supply, this was one of many disribution points.
Old computer wiring cupboard
Big empty factory floor
Warning!
Thanks for looking
Maniac.
