Why?
When Hinkley Point C first appeared on the horizon, it raised a question for RK Bell – why would a small Somerset family business pursue Europe’s largest construction project?
Through early engagement with EDF, the Somerset Chamber of Commerce and various Supplier Steering Groups, we worked to understand where our existing capabilities could align with project. This collaboration led us to form the Somerset Infrastructure Alliance (SIA), bringing together local businesses and delivery partners capable of meeting nuclear governance.
RK Bell and the Somerset Infrastructure Alliance worked collectively through the rigorous four-stage nuclear gated approval process and seven years later, RK Bell is on the HPC site having secured its first contract award. Nearly a decade on, RK Bell continues to provide multi-faceted, quality site operations services at HPC.
The commercial value of the contract was only part of the story. The greater value was the knowledge gained. Operating within a nuclear environment raised the bar of standards and accelerated investments in machinery, workforce development and apprenticeships. Those improvements remain embedded in the business today, positioning RK Bell as a nuclear-ready SME capable of supporting nuclear new-build across the UK.
For companies considering the HPC supply chain, the advice is straightforward – a sustained commitment is essential. The process is complex and highly contractual but for those who are prepared to invest, Hinkley Point C offers more than just a commercial opportunity, it offers the chance to build a legacy.
In 2026, RK Bell marks its 85th year as a family business, now spanning three businesses with six divisions in Civil Engineering, Surfacing, Highways, Plant Hire, Transport & Haulage and Waste Transfer & Recycling.
Our success at Hinkley Point C is proof that it is possible – that a small, local family business can operate within one of Europe’s largest and most highly regulated construction projects. Today, we continue to deliver this landmark contract with pride, supporting the regional supply chain and maintaining the same high standards we set nearly a decade ago.
RK Bell Group
Complete Infrastructure Solutions
www.rkbell.com | 01278 424 883 |
| Civil Engineering | Surfacing | Highways | Plant Hire | Transport & Haulage | Waste Transfer & Recycling |