Jobs boost possible for Chatteris firm as it wins role in Government backed civil nuclear supply chain

Metalcraft: workshops (Image: Archant)

And it could mean a jobs boost for Metalcraft’s 162 strong workforce as the programme gets under way.

Metalcraft: Austen Adams, MD of Avingtrans (Image: Archant)

The Chatteris based company already manufactures vessels, tanks and heat exchangers for nuclear clients including Sellafield and Rolls-Royce.

It is one of only a handful of manufacturers so far to be selected for the assessment phase of the Civil Nuclear Sharing in Growth (CNSIG) programme, which will support significant growth in the UK’s civil nuclear supply chain over the next four years.

Austen Adams, managing director, said: “With the number of people employed in manufacturing for the new-build civil nuclear power industry due to increase significantly over the next decade, the opportunities for local job creation are clear.

“As home to the Fenland Engineering Skills Centre, we’ve already made a strong commitment to training the next generation of skilled engineers and we’re keen to maximise opportunities for local workers as part of this exciting programme.”

CNSIG is managed by the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC) with support from industry leaders including Rolls-Royce, and part-funded by the Regional Growth Fund. The programme aims to develop the UK manufacturing supply chain for civil nuclear – in new build, operations and decommissioning – and help UK companies win work in the nuclear industry at home and overseas.

Mr Adams said: “We’re really pleased to be selected for the assessment stage of the process, which speaks volumes for the credibility and heritage we’ve built up during our 30 years in the industry.”

“With Government policy finally clearing the way for investment in new civil nuclear energy plants – such as those at Hinkley Point, Somerset and Wylfa, Anglesey – there is real growth potential within the sector and we’re keen to establish Metalcraft as one of the key players in the UK’s civil nuclear supply chain.”

Metalcraft is currently undergoing assessments by the CNSIG team to identify areas of strength and potential improvements that could be made across its business to support the expected growth in the industry. Once this feedback is received, it will then apply for the next stage of CNSIG, developing a bespoke programme of training, development and investment to address key business issues and help maximise future performance.