THE new reception at BAE Systems, Samlesbury, was lit up in all its glory ahead of its official opening next week.

The futuristic design of the structure, which would not look out of place on Channel 4’s programme Grand Designs, forms a gateway to the new entrance off the A59.

It also marks the first stage of a massive investment plan that could see almost £1billion pumped into the East Lancashire aerospace site over the next decade.

The area, with its angular steel work, is like something out of a sci-fi movie and is towered over by two huge offices that will house the growing workforce at the site.

This picture shows the reception area being floodlit last weekend.

It was developed by Blackburn architect and former Witton Park High School pupil Altaf Master. Mr Master worked as part of a large Capita Symonds project team to provide architectural and structural services to BAE Systems expands.

The original idea for the reception was for a traditional brick building, but designers say the new structure mimics the angular lines of fighter jets developed by BAE.