Suffolk businesses should start to prepare now for the opportunities at Sizewell C, attendees at a webinar have been told.

The virtual event, hosted by Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, welcomed guest speakers from EDF who updated delegates on the project to build a new nuclear power station in Suffolk and shared experiences from work to build identical reactors at Hinkley Point C in Somerset.

“The message we want to get out to all of you today is that now is the time to start preparing yourselves for Sizewell C,” said host Gareth Davies, head of supply chain engagement at Suffolk Chamber.

MORE – Software developer helps his local to get back in business post-lockdown“If you have more to do in terms of regulatory alignment and making changes, then start now.

“We have also heard that collaboration is key. You must be prepared to work collaboratively. Do not see other local companies in the same field as you as competitors, but possible allies.”

Tom McGarry, head of stakeholder engagement at Sizewell C, gave an overview of the planning application which is now being considered, sharing detail about the construction of the site, planned road and rail improvements and how the environment and safety has been put at the heart of the plans.

He introduced Steve Carroll who has recently been appointed senior supply chain lead at Sizewell C. Steve is based in Suffolk and will be the primary contact for local businesses in collaboration with the Suffolk Chamber.

Miles Vartan of Vartan Consultancy, and a key advisor the chamber, spoke about regulatory alignment and how companies hoping to win contracts would have to demonstrate a positive culture as well as the correct certification to be successful at Sizewell. He also encouraged delegates to embrace regular gap analysis exercises with the chamber to identify where work needed to be done.

Suffolk Chamber welcomed Jamie Driver, EDF supply chain manager at Hinkley Point C in Somerset who offered first hand experience of building a complex supply chain at Hinkley, shed light on the procurement process, touched on supplier competencies and stressed the importance of local businesses working collaboratively.

The webinar is the first of its kind run by the Sizewell C Supply Chain and will be followed by further targeted events looking at key sectors, joint ventures and meet the buyers.

To view the webinar visit www.sizewellcsupplychain.co.uk