New figures show Hinkley Point C is driving growth across Britain and boosting the South West’s economy
As the construction of the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station hits a new peak, the project’s latest Socio-Economic Report reveals how its immense scale is helping drive growth and productivity across Britain, whilst giving the South West economy long term benefits. The full report and case studies can be read here.
The number of people working directly for the project in Britain is currently 18,000. Around 12,000 are working on the site itself, with 3,000 more expected in the next 12 months. With the fit-out phase accelerating, an additional 8,000 people are supporting the project as part of the supply chain, including factories in Bristol, Somerset, Wales and right across the country.
This British supply chain of over 4,000 businesses now has the experience, skills and people to work on the next new nuclear projects at Sizewell C and future SMRs, as well as the other infrastructure and energy projects needed to drive growth in Britain. Case studies in the report show that businesses are growing their capability and workforce, helping them win new work beyond Hinkley Point C.
The advantage of hosting Britain's first new nuclear project has helped the South West region position itself as a leading centre of nuclear and engineering skills, with around 3,500 nuclear jobs in Bristol alone and a new nuclear centre opening at Aztec West later this year.
Locally, the town of Bridgwater is seeing productivity levels 10% higher than surrounding towns whilst the district around Hinkley Point C has seeing an increase in the number of medium-sized companies that is ten-times higher than the South West region.
Stuart Crooks, Hinkley Point C’s Managing Director said: "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. The work to establish a supply chain and develop new skills means Britain is ready for our next nuclear projects like Sizewell C and future small modular reactors, as well as other critical infrastructure."
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: "This report demonstrates how our mission to become a clean energy superpower will grow the economy and create thousands of jobs. Clean, homegrown nuclear power plays an important role in revitalising our regional communities, with Hinkley Point C providing opportunities for local young people and backing businesses in the South West. That’s why we are pushing ahead with new nuclear across the country so more communities can reap the benefits – including Sizewell C in Suffolk and Great British Nuclear’s small modular reactor competition."
Matt Tudor, Vice Principle of Strategy and Partnerships at Bridgwater & Taunton College said: "The collaboration with Hinkley Point C has made Bridgwater & Taunton College a leader in nuclear education and training and provided the local community with an economic boost through job creation and skill development. Most importantly, it has positioned the South West as a leading centre for nuclear and engineering excellence, ensuring long-tern skills development in the region."
