Somerset Energy Innovation Centre

Somerset Energy Innovation Centre provides flexible office space for growth businesses in the Hinkley Point C supply chain, offering business support and fostering innovation and collaboration for nuclear and other low-carbon energy businesses.

The building acts as both a catalyst and focal point. It sets the tone for the park as a premium ‘gateway’ development. The internal fit out and facilities meet the expectations of international partners, and provide a variety of work spaces to meet the requirements of SMEs.

Location

Bridgwater, Devon

Client

Taunton Deane Borough Council

Service

Architecture, Interior Design

Sector

Commercial, Workplaces

Sustainability

BREEAM Excellent

Completed

2017


The Somerset Energy Innovation Centre is central to the Hinkley Strategic Delivery Forum’s plans for a new Somerset business cluster, and local supply chain investment; aiming to ensure long-term economic benefit from Hinkley Point C.

The Centre provides flexible office space for growth businesses in the Hinkley supply chain, attracting companies to the new Somerset cluster; enabling joint ventures; and encouraging collaborative ‘spin off’projects. It is designed to facilitate networking and interface between EDF, who are initially using part as an induction centre, and the local supply chain.

For other users the Centre provides business support and fosters innovation and collaboration for nuclear and other low-carbon energy businesses. It also supports the ‘upskilling’ of the local technology sector enabling it to operate within the nuclear industry, and developing skills which are transferable across the rest of the energy market.

Architecturally the project provides a landmark building that acts as a catalyst and focal point. It sets the tone for the site as a premium ‘gateway’ development. The internal fit out and facilities meet the expectations of international partners, and provide a variety of work spaces to meet the requirements of SMEs. The building achieved BREEAM Excellent and was designed to meet British Council of Offices best practice.