EDF Energy has officially scrapped its plans to build a 1,000-bed campus for workers at the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station near junction 24 of the M5 in Bridgwater. This decision comes as updated workforce projections show a smaller peak construction team than initially anticipated.
The Hinkley Point C construction workforce is expected to peak between 2026 and 2028, with as many as 15,000 people working on site during that period. In July 2025, the NNB Generation Company (HPC) Ltd proposed a large new campus close to the motorway services operated by Welcome Break, a plan that passed an early environmental screening stage by Somerset Council in August 2025.
However, EDF has now withdrawn the proposal, stating that the facility is “no longer required” due to the reduced workforce requirements. Currently, Hinkley Point C operates two main worker campuses—the Sedgemoor Campus on Bath Road (A39) and the Hinkley Campus adjacent to the power station—as well as housing staff in campsites like Quantock Lakes near Nether Stowey and Moorhouse Campsite in Holford.
READ MORE: Heartfelt Tribute to Beloved Son Craig Hurcombe Following Tragic Death in Somerset
READ MORE: McLaren Faces Major Challenges as Lando Norris Eyes F1 Title Defence
The proposed campus site was to be located at the eastern end of Notaro Way, near Buttercup Nursery School and Lakeview Holiday Cottages, and is visible from the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal towpath.
Stacy Walker, Stakeholder Relations Manager at Hinkley Point C, communicated the cancellation in a letter to local residents, later shared by Somerset Council leader Bill Revans. Walker explained that the updated workforce estimates reduced community impact concerns and removed the necessity for the new campus.
To support the ongoing construction phase while mitigating local housing pressures, Somerset Council has recently approved expanded parking near Bridgwater and Albion Rugby Football Club to promote use of existing park and ride services. EDF will continue collaborating with local authorities to manage accommodation challenges.
Furthermore, EDF plans to increase affordable housing opportunities through enhanced support of an accommodation fund that has already rehabilitated older properties and funded affordable housing schemes. This approach aims to provide lasting benefits to the local community beyond short-term worker housing solutions.
EDF remains committed to minimizing disruption and maximizing social and economic benefits for Somerset as Hinkley Point C progresses toward completion.