Global engineering and construction group joins Northern Powerhouse Partnership

Global engineering, construction, and project management company, Bechtel,has joined the Northern Powerhouse Partnership (NPP), supporting its mission to drive economic growth and productivity across the North.

As part of NPP, Bechtel said it will contribute expertise and insight to help shape policies that unlock infrastructure investment, create jobs, and improve connectivity across the region.

The Northern Powerhouse Partnership brings together business and civic leaders to advocate for policies that will unlock the full potential of the north’s economy.

It works to influence decision making at the highest levels of government, championing investment in transport, skills, innovation, and net zero projects that will create long term economic opportunities.

By joining NPP, Bechtel said it will support efforts to secure investment in infrastructure, help shape policy discussions, and provide expert insight to ensure that major projects are delivered effectively.

With its global infrastructure business headquartered in London, Bechtel has been working with customers to deliver major UK projects for more than 70 years, including High Speed 1, the Channel Tunnel, the Elizabeth Line, and the West Coast Main Line.

Bechtel said its experience will strengthen NPP’s ability to make the case for transformational investment in the north.

The group is currently working on major infrastructure projects across the UK, with a strong presence in the north, particularly in the nuclear sector.

At Sellafield in Cumbria, Bechtel is supporting the clean up of the Pile Fuel Cladding Silo, one of Europe’s most hazardous buildings – a project focused on reducing environmental risk.

The company is also working with Urenco in Cheshire to support the region’s role in the UK’s clean energy transition.

Alongside its work in the north, Bechtel is also involved in projects including HS2 and London Gatwick Airport. Internationally, the company recently completed two of the six lines on the Riyadh Metro, delivering world class transport infrastructure to improve connectivity and drive economic growth.

David King, managing director of UK & Ireland public infrastructure at Bechtel, said: “Our country’s economic growth depends on maximising productivity throughout the UK, and nowhere is that untapped potential greater than in the north of England.

“That’s why we’re delighted to contribute to NPP’s impactful work and support its objectives of building infrastructure that creates jobs, training, and opportunities, and efficiently connects communities across the north for generations to come.”

Angela Seeney, Northern Powerhouse board member and executive director for transformation at Sellafield, said: “It is my privilege to welcome Bechtel as a member of The Northern Powerhouse on behalf of Sellafield Ltd and our wider members.

“Their decision to join the partnership reaffirms their strong commitment to the north and to the principles of investment, innovation, and skills development that are central to our region’s long term success.”

She added: “By bringing their global expertise to the NPP table, Bechtel strengthens our efforts to deliver the infrastructure, energy, and economic opportunities that will help communities across the North thrive.

“At Sellafield, Bechtel has been a key partner in tackling some of our most complex engineering challenges, including the retrieval of waste from the Pile Fuel Cladding Silo – one of the most hazardous legacy nuclear facilities in the UK.

“Their expertise in infrastructure delivery and safety-driven innovation has supported our clean up mission.

“Their continued commitment to the north will be invaluable in driving forward the priorities of NPP and ensuring our region benefits from world class infrastructure and investment.”