Cumbria-headquartered Stobbarts is the latest local firm to join Sellafield’s Programme and Project Partners (PPP) on a £40 million, 15-year framework contract that will see the business support main delivery partner McAlpine.
The construction firm, in Workington, has been contracted to deliver major infrastructure projects at the former nuclear power site, which include groundworks and concrete (civils), alongside the main contractor.
Because the work is long term, Stobbarts can continue its ambitious growth strategy, recruiting more local workers and investing in its apprenticeship programme.
The company also plans to develop its existing facilities and expand into new premises nearby.
Sellafield, which opened in 1956 and was previously known as Windscale, includes more than 200 nuclear facilities and more than 1,000 buildings.
However, as of August 2022, primary activities are nuclear waste processing and storage and nuclear decommissioning.
Many contractors and suppliers, including Keltbray, have been commissioned to deliver nuclear infrastructure decommissioning and asbestos removal (DAR) services there for Magnox on behalf of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.
Since mobilising in 2019, PPP has awarded contracts with a potential value of £3 billion.
The partnership is now working with around 200 suppliers from across the UK, with 40 per cent based in the North West of England and almost 70 per cent being SMEs.
“We have a steadfast commitment to West Cumbria; to create jobs, invest, and deliver social impact,” said Adam Stobbart, director of Stobbarts.
“As we embark on this new chapter, we remain committed to innovation, sustainability, and community enrichment.
“Together with our partners and stakeholders, we look forward to shaping a brighter future for West Cumbria and beyond.”
John Rossiter, head of PPP supply chain, added: “The PPP model is entering an exciting period as we start to see the growth of our Tier 3 layer of suppliers joining the enterprise.
“The model is truly pioneering and a radical shift in how major projects have been delivered to date.”
Was this interesting? Try Laing ORourke and Morgan Sindall among firms hired for major grid upgrade
If you have a tip or story idea that fits with our publication, please contact the news editor rory@wavenews.co.uk
Image credit: Simon Ledingham, aerial view Sellafield, Cumbria, via WikiCommons. Also Stobbarts.
Get industry news in 5 minutes!
A daily email that makes industry news enjoyable. It’s completely free.