Bridgwater is undergoing significant transformation. The construction of the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station is bringing fresh jobs and opportunities to the area. Nearby, the planned gigafactory in Puriton promises further change that could reshape local life.
While Hinkley Point C enjoys strong community support—with EDF reporting only 14% opposition—concerns have emerged around rising rents driven by new arrivals. Brigitte Bentham, a lettings manager who has witnessed these changes firsthand, notes, “The majority of people here are not originally from Bridgwater. There’s a significant number of foreign workers on site, including many apprentices brought in. It’s positive for the local economy.”
In September 2024, a resident shared off the record how a sharp rent increase forced him out of his family home, suspecting landlords were capitalizing on demand from incoming workers.
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Although Bridgwater’s immigration rate remains below the national average—with just 9.4% of residents born outside the UK compared to 17.4% nationally—the town has seen an influx of workers on visas connected to these major projects. Brigitte views this influx as beneficial and not a source of tension: “They earn well but often move on after a time. For many, Bridgwater is a stepping stone.”
To better understand the migrant experience, we spoke with Benjamin and Mounia, a young French couple raising their two children in nearby Taunton while commuting to Bridgwater for work. Benjamin works as a project manager at Hinkley Point C and Mounia manages stakeholder relations.
Rather than seeing Somerset as temporary, they have grown attached to the region. Mounia shares, “Our children are very happy in their school and fluent in both French and English. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them.” Benjamin adds that the biggest adjustment was relocating from urban Paris to rural Somerset, rather than the move between countries. “We’ve been here three and a half years, and we want to stay. Life is calmer and the surroundings are beautiful.”
The couple has faced no prejudice, with Mounia reflecting on her volunteer work in a small village where initial hesitations gave way to trust and connection. “It’s a mutual process of adaptation, and eventually, the barriers fall.”
Hinkley Point C emphasizes its positive local impact. Local vicar Suze Osmond, benefiting from donations, says, “They want their legacy to be a good one.” The project has donated £20 million to 400 local groups, trained 1,740 apprentices, and supported nearly 20,000 people through training programs.
Despite this boon, many jobs linked to construction are temporary, causing anxiety about future employment prospects. Mounia remains optimistic: “Skills gained here will benefit apprentices long-term, and we’re working to attract more major projects to Somerset.”
While debate over Hinkley Point C continues, families like Benjamin’s see potential for a brighter future in Bridgwater shaped by opportunity and community growth.