Hinkley Point C, Britain’s first new nuclear power station in 30 years, has been a massive undertaking for the area and, with a budget of around £46 billion, it overshadows the economy of the whole county. The project has also been a significant source of revenue for local firms, with over £1 billion spent on project supplies. However, not everyone has benefitted from the project’s presence: the commandeering of the old holiday park at Brean Sands by EDF to house over 900 of its construction workers has reportedly “decimated” the local seaside resort’s seasonal trade, with local traders claiming that they have not seen any business from the workers.
Despite EDF’s promises that the scheme would mean “business all year round for the local traders,” the nuclear builders allegedly do not spend any money in the seaside resort or come out into the economy. The fact has hit local businesses such as fish and chip shops, cafes, convenience stores, and amusement arcades, all of which have to contend with the drop in the numbers of families who used to stay in the camp. Traders are reportedly considering whether to close altogether.
Privately, some business owners say the winter has been tough due to the downturn in tourism, with takings down so much last year that some considered closing. The season has come again, however, and with Brean being the second-largest camping and caravan resort in the UK and the busiest tourism area in Somerset, businesses are hoping for better weather this year.
EDF denies that its takeover of Pontins is causing the drop in tourism, suggesting that thousands of tourism businesses across the southwest reported reduced numbers and income because of the wet peak months of July and August, combined with the cost-of-living crisis.
Despite this, if Brean is still to survive, businesses in the area must continue to find ways to adapt to the influx of the workers and come up with innovative ideas to improve their appeal to the seasonal market
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