The agreement will see NMCN provide a turnkey design and build security upgrade to implement the latest technology and systems across the Met Office Exeter HQ estate which houses the majority of their circa 2000 workforce. Following key upgrade works across the Met Office HQ estate, NMCN will then take responsibility for planned and reactive maintenance of security systems and associated technology. The relationship with the Met Office strengthens NMCN’s regional focus in the South West, who are a tier one partner to South West Water, as well as numerous other regional clients.

The Met Office is the national meteorological service for the UK, providing critical weather services and world-leading climate science for domestic and overseas use. Since their foundation in 1854, the Met Office has pioneered the science of meteorology and its application. To this day, they continue to push the boundaries of science and technology, to meet the demands of today and the future.

Adam Smith, Managing Director of Asset Security at NMCN, said: “The Met Office is a British institution with a strong heritage for leading public service, military and commercial forecasting around the world. The security of their operations is paramount and I’m delighted we’re able to support them through this contract. We look forward to working closely with the Met Office over the coming years to bring value, collaboration and quality.”

The ultimate responsibility and accountability for the work of the Met Office is with the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. Day-to-day ministerial oversight and the formal business ownership role are delegated to the Minister of State for Universities, Science, Research and Innovation.

Met Office Security Manager, Richard Kevern, said: “As we continue to deliver critical weather forecasting and climate science services, the security of our people and assets is of paramount importance. We look forward to working collaboratively with NMCN on both the capital and maintenance programme over the coming years.”