The building firm will now work up detailed plans for the new complex before seeking planning determination later this year.  Costs associated with the new office will be met by the UKHO from business receipts as a self-funding agency.

The UKHO, which produces maps and charts for the Royal Navy and merchant shipping, will continue to operate from its current buildings until moving into the new office, which is planned for 2019. Existing buildings will then be demolished and the land at the front of the site sold for redevelopment.

Chief Executive John Humphrey said: “The redevelopment of UKHO’s Admiralty Way site will see the construction of a new environmentally friendly office to create a modern, collaborative working environment. As well as bringing cost efficiency, the new building will deliver up-to-date technology and working conditions to enable UKHO to sustain a long-term future as a data-centric organisation.”