THE FIRM that provides warheads for the UK's nuclear missiles has got permission to expand its testing facilities at a military base.

Carlisle City Council has approved revised plans to expand AWE's workshop in a secure area of RAF Spadeadam operated by company DNV-GL.

A similar application had been approved in March - an updated application was however submitted because of a layout change.

According to the design and access statement: "The site is within a secure portion of the MOD site and forms part of the research and testing facility operated by DNV-GL.

"The application seeks to extend the existing AWE building which currently contains a crane store, test space and ancillary accommodation.

"The proposed application seeks to extend the crane housing and testing areas of the building which has increased demand and the existing building does not have enough testing areas.

"The crane needs to be able to work within the new extended areas and therefore the building height needs to reflect this.

"The area the building is to be extended is currently a concrete so will not impact significantly on the surrounding area for surface water run off.

"This extension will enable the existing building and business arm associated with this testing facility to be developed and grow to meet current demands whilst being easily accessible for staff and remaining within the secure area of the compound."

On its website AWE says it's the company that provides the warheads for the UK's nuclear deterrent.