Somerset businesses are experiencing unprecedented growth after securing contracts to support the construction of the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station. As the project reaches its peak construction phase, a workforce of 26,000 is busy across Britain, with numbers continuing to climb.
The latest data from Hinkley Point C reveals that over 1,500 apprentices have been trained so far, with 70% hailing from the South West region. Impressively, 35% of the workforce comes from some of Britain’s most deprived areas. The project’s supply chain includes an additional 8,000 people working in factories and businesses spanning Bristol, Somerset, Wales, and beyond.
The area surrounding Hinkley Point C has seen a surge in medium-sized companies, increasing at a rate ten times higher than the wider South West region. Stuart Crooks, Managing Director of Hinkley Point C, highlights the project’s transformative impact: “Our huge scale gives us the opportunity to be a force for good and a catalyst for change. We’re driving growth across Britain and in our region by giving thousands of people new skills and helping businesses to expand. This lays the groundwork for future nuclear projects, like Sizewell C and small modular reactors, as well as other vital infrastructure.”
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Energy Secretary Ed Miliband emphasized the broader economic and social benefits: “This report shows how our mission to become a clean energy superpower will grow the economy and create thousands of jobs. Clean, homegrown nuclear power revitalizes regional communities, providing opportunities for young people and supporting businesses across the South West. That’s why we’re advancing new nuclear projects nationwide.”
Educational institutions are also benefiting. Matt Tudor, Vice Principal of Strategy and Partnerships at Bridgwater & Taunton College, explained, “Our collaboration with Hinkley Point C has elevated Bridgwater & Taunton College to a leader in nuclear education and training, boosting the local economy through job creation and skills development. This strengthens the South West as a hub for nuclear and engineering excellence with long-term benefits.”
Local businesses are thriving as well. Precision engineering firm Berry & Escott, which secured a major contract at Hinkley Point C, has doubled its workforce from 28 to 57 employees. The company designs training equipment for the operational power station and is expanding its premises in Bridgwater. Director Lee Berry expressed pride in their Tier One status on Europe’s largest construction site and a commitment to cultivating the next generation of nuclear engineers.
Somerset Larder, formed in 2014 by local food producers to serve the Hinkley Point C workforce, has kept 78% of its £63.5 million spend within the South West. M & J Pyne’s Butchers in North Petherton has supplied over £6 million worth of locally sourced meat to the project, including 45,000 handmade burgers in 2024 alone — almost one burger for every person in Bridgwater. Owner Malcolm Pyne described the journey as “monumental” and “100% positive,” highlighting the transformative effects for the business and the community.
Turnbull, a lifecycle construction and operations firm established because of Hinkley Point C, has expanded from an initial team of eight to more than 230 employees while training 11 apprentices on site. Managing Director James Dryden shared, “Turnbull’s success at Hinkley Point C is a testament to our commitment to local supply chains and community initiatives. We are proud to support Britain’s Net Zero ambitions and look forward to contributing to future projects like Sizewell C.”
Young people are seizing these opportunities too. 19-year-old Letty Smith from Wedmore chose an apprenticeship over traditional university routes, joining Hinkley Point C’s Project Controls Degree Apprenticeship. She said, “Growing up nearby, I’ve watched the project develop. By the end of my apprenticeship, I’ll have a degree, six years of experience, and no student debt — with a nearly guaranteed job and endless possibilities.”
Hinkley Point C is not only driving the UK’s clean energy future but also empowering local communities, businesses, and individuals to thrive.