VARTAN is proud to welcome the landmark announcement confirming the UK Government’s Final Investment Decision (FID) on the Sizewell C nuclear power station – a pivotal moment for the nation’s energy future, job creation, and climate commitments.

Located on the Suffolk coast, Sizewell C is set to become one of the most significant infrastructure investments in a generation. The project will deliver a new nuclear power station capable of supplying low-carbon electricity to approximately six million homes, supporting the UK’s long-term commitment to achieving net zero emissions.

VARTAN, which works closely with companies involved in Sizewell C’s evolving supply chain and governance structure, views this decision as a turning point for sustainable development. The project is expected to provide around 10,000 jobs during peak construction, 1,500 apprenticeships, and long-term opportunities for businesses across the UK – including many in the East of England.

Miles Vartan, MD at VARTAN, said:
“This milestone demonstrates real leadership and vision. Sizewell C is not just an energy project; it’s a legacy investment in clean power, community skills, and responsible industry. We’re particularly encouraged by the strong emphasis on supply chain inclusion, local employment, and long-term sustainability.”

As well as strengthening the UK’s energy independence, the project embeds ESG values at its core, further demonstrating commitment to meeting DCO promises. Environmental stewardship is being prioritised through extensive coastal management planning and carbon reduction throughout the build and operational phases. Socially, the project will leave a skills and training footprint that benefits future generations, while strong governance is reflected in its public-private investment structure and regulatory oversight.

The Sizewell C project builds on lessons learned at Hinkley Point C, using similar EPR reactor technology. The streamlined design, combined with increased experience in delivery, is expected to bring both cost efficiencies and reduced construction timelines. The funding model also reflects a new era of national resilience and stakeholder accountability, with the Government and institutional investors sharing in both risk and reward.

VARTAN stands ready to continue supporting businesses navigating regulatory frameworks, workforce development, and ESG integration as Sizewell C progresses. This recent announcement underlines the critical importance of large-scale clean energy investments in ensuring a prosperous, low-carbon future for the UK.

With the UK Government officially committing £14.2 billion to the Sizewell C nuclear power station this month, another firm step towards the announcement of the Final Investment Decision (FID) has been made. The pre-construction phase has well and truly begun, with early preparation works underway, including the continued development of the Orwell Logistics Park in Ipswich. Across Suffolk and beyond, businesses are eager to play their part.

But with opportunity comes a clear challenge: how do local suppliers convert interest into contracts?

For an increasing number of companies, an answer to this conundrum lies with VARTAN, a consultancy based in Felixstowe that’s rapidly becoming the go-to strategic partner for companies determined to participate in the Sizewell C supply chain arena.

Turning Aspiration into Action

Sizewell C will be one of the most complex infrastructure projects the UK has ever undertaken. At the project’s peak, approximately 10,000 workers will be on site, with precise scheduling, rigorous safety standards, and sustainability goals built into every contract. With rail and sea freight prioritised over road transport, ‘Logistics’ will play a critical role.

“The scale is exciting, but it’s not business as usual,” says Miles Vartan, Managing Director of VARTAN. “Sizewell C requires companies to operate at a standard that is the same as when working on critical national infrastructure projects; whether it’s documentation, health, safety & welfare advice, environmental compliance, or simply how reliably they can deliver to schedule – It’s our job to get them there.”

The VARTAN Way: Preparing the Supply Chain

The company’s structured approach, known as The VARTAN Way, is already helping many organisations bridge the gap between ambition and operational readiness.

Through bespoke Discovery Audits and Strategic Reviews, VARTAN works with businesses to:

• Ensure all people working on the project are kept safe at all times by applying a set of innovative techniques, including compelling safety films – these films make sure that all employees know how to look after themselves …. and then apply this knowledge on a minute-by-minute, day-by-day basis
• Identify capability gaps across logistics, quality, and compliance
• Implement ISO and safety systems aligned with Sizewell requirements
• Support internal teams with document creation and audit preparation
• Ensure readiness for pre-qualification and tendering processes

Where others offer generic advice, VARTAN delivers sector-specific, project-focused support based on direct engagement with Sizewell C stakeholders and experience gained over the last 12 years from the EDF announcement relating to the building of HPC and SZC to the present day.

Not Just a Nuclear Project – A Regional Catalyst

The Sizewell C development will impact supply chains across the East of England. Port operators, haulage firms, site service providers, maintenance specialists, and equipment suppliers are all in scope, but few are fully prepared.

“Everyone’s excited about the opportunity, and rightly so,” says Miles Vartan. “But the reality is that opportunity doesn’t mean access. There’s a significant difference between expressing interest and being contract-ready. That’s where we come in.”

With the SZC North Plaza, working in sync with The Orwell Logistics Park, set to become a centralised on-site logistics hub for the project, strict controls are being implemented on everything from site entry to emissions reporting. Suppliers will need to meet more than just price and availability requirements. They’ll need to demonstrate consistency, compliance, and clarity.

Time Is Ticking

While Sizewell C’s construction timeline stretches over a decade, many contract decisions are being made now. Companies that delay their preparations risk missing out on initial, and often critical, phases of the build.

To help businesses move swiftly, VARTAN offers a Discovery Audit: a rapid, structured review that pinpoints a business’s current standing and outlines a clear path to Sizewell C alignment.

“It’s not about adding bureaucracy,” says Miles. “It’s about removing doubt. When you sit in front of a procurement team, you need to show you’re ready to deliver. We help make sure you can do just that.”

A Local Partner with National Vision

As the region rallies around Sizewell C, VARTAN is uniquely positioned. With deep roots in Suffolk and a proven track record in infrastructure logistics, the company continues to support both SMEs and larger operators in stepping up to this challenge through direct engagement with the project’s key players.

For those looking to go beyond aspiration, the message is clear: The VARTAN Way is the bridge between interest and implementation.

As plans for the construction of Sizewell C progress, the project’s impact on Suffolk’s economy is becoming more apparent. Local businesses are gearing up to seize the opportunities, and VARTAN Consultancy is at the forefront, helping companies like Peterson Energy Logistics navigate the local supply chain. VARTAN’s expertise ensures Suffolk’s workforce is well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of this massive infrastructure project.

In a recent episode of VARTAN’s “Super Suffolk Suppliers” series on YouTube, Miles Vartan, MD of VARTAN Consultancy, interviewed Daniel Leggett, MD of Round House, an independent sheet metal fabrication company located in Lowestoft. Daniel discussed the future for local businesses and stressed the importance of empowering the workforce to adapt to emerging opportunities from Sizewell C.

The Role of VARTAN in Supporting Local SMEs

VARTAN has become a pivotal player in Suffolk’s industrial landscape, focusing on supporting SMEs. Its deep understanding of the local supply chain has been critical in preparing businesses to meet the standards of significant projects like Sizewell C. The VARTAN Way – a strategic, expert-driven support framework – has proven essential for companies looking to scale up and engage in these projects.

Miles Vartan explained that opportunities from Sizewell C extend beyond job creation to long-term growth for local SMEs. VARTAN bridges the gap between smaller businesses and the larger corporations involved in Sizewell C.

Miles says, “Many workers in Suffolk are eager to shift into roles tied to Sizewell C. The VARTAN Way guides businesses in retaining their talent while positioning themselves as key suppliers. VARTAN’s support empowers SMEs to help their workforce transition into roles that contribute to the project, fostering both business and workforce development.”

The Peterson Collaboration

One of VARTAN’s most notable collaborations has been with Peterson Energy Logistics, a global energy logistics company with a strong presence in Norfolk and Suffolk. VARTAN has been instrumental in assisting Peterson in further developing local and regional supply chain relationships, ensuring that SMEs in Suffolk are not left out of the equation but are instead meaningfully integrated into the potential Sizewell C supply chain.

Peterson benefits from VARTAN’s deep understanding of the local business landscape. Through their partnership, they are able to identify and engage suppliers who can meet the complex logistical demands of a project like Sizewell C. This collaboration showcases VARTAN’s ability to not only support SMEs but also create sustainable, mutually beneficial relationships between local businesses and larger corporations.

Sizewell C is a tremendous opportunity for Suffolk’s economy. Under the leadership of VARTAN and ‘The VARTAN Way’, local SMEs are well-positioned for long-term success.

Ashtons Legal is preparing for its highly anticipated Road Transport Briefing. This practical and essential industry event will take place on Tuesday, 5 November 2024, at the Trinity Park Conference & Events Centre in Ipswich. From 08:30 to 14:30 hrs, the briefing will offer road transport professionals a comprehensive update on critical legal issues, compliance, and the latest trends and challenges impacting the sector.

The day will feature presentations from a panel of esteemed industry experts, including the Senior Traffic Commissioner and East of England Traffic Commissioner, Richard Turfitt, who will provide insights into current concerns and best practices for operators. Attendees will also hear from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), which will give an update on roadside enforcement and the evolving regulatory framework surrounding autonomous vehicles in commercial transport. Accountancy firm Ensors will also deliver an update on the impact of the Autumn Statement on road transport businesses.

Adding to the event’s impressive lineup, Mark Cartwright, Head of Commercial Vehicle Incident Prevention at National Highways, will delve into critical research on driver-related issues. His session will emphasize the need for companies to balance their focus between vehicle maintenance and driver performance to ensure complete compliance.

In addition to these external speakers, the legal team at Ashtons Legal will provide updates on employment law and road transport-related legal matters, ensuring delegates are up to speed on the latest legislative changes.

Leading regional transport law specialist Tim Ridyard of Ashtons underscores the importance of attending: “Staying informed on the latest legislation and regulatory changes is crucial in the road transport industry. This briefing offers a unique opportunity for professionals to gain direct insights from regulators and industry leaders. It’s an essential event for anyone looking to keep their operations compliant and avoid potential pitfalls in an evolving legal landscape.”

The event is open for registration and is expected to draw a wide range of attendees, including directors, business owners, transport managers, consultants, and others involved in employment and regulatory compliance within the goods and passenger transport sectors. Given its popularity and the high level of interest it has already generated, it is highly recommended that you secure your booking.

A light breakfast and lunch will be provided, making it a well-rounded networking and professional development day.

For more information and booking, visit Eventbrite or contact Toby Whittacker-Cook at Ashtons Legal toby.whittacker-cook@ashtonslegal.co.uk

Event details

Ashton Legals’ Road Transport Briefing

Tue, 5 Nov 2024 08:30 – 14:30 hrs

Trinity Park Conference & Events Centre

Felixstowe Road, Ipswich IP3 8UH

Book here

Admission

£82.80 per person

For existing Ashtons Legal clients with a Road Transport retainer package, there are two free places available per company, which can be booked by contacting Toby Whittacker-Cook via toby.whittacker-cook@ashtonslegal.co.uk

Refund Policy

Refunds are available up to 7 days before the event

Please note Eventbrite’s fee is non-refundable.

Bringing together VARTAN Consultancy’s industry insights and strategic expertise to support businesses in navigating the complex procurement landscape associated with Sizewell C and other large-scale infrastructure projects, company founder Miles Vartan explains all about his company’s latest offering: The VARTAN Way—Signpost to Sizewell C.

“As the construction of Sizewell C, the UK’s newest nuclear power station, gets underway, it promises to be one of the country’s most significant infrastructure projects.

“Situated right on our doorstep and with a construction cost of around £20 billion, Sizewell C offers immense business opportunities across various sectors. Navigating the complexities of securing contracts for such a colossal project can be daunting. Still, The VARTAN Way – Signpost to Sizewell C –  is designed to make this process seamless and efficient for businesses looking to tap into the burgeoning opportunities at Sizewell C.

“This latest nuclear power station is a beacon of sustainable energy and a catalyst for regional economic growth. Expected to generate approximately 3.2 GW of electricity, it will power around 6 million homes and significantly contribute to the UK’s net-zero ambitions. The construction phase alone will create thousands of jobs, and with over 60% of the investment earmarked for UK companies, there’s a substantial opportunity for local businesses to get involved.”

Providing a wealth of knowledge and support to local and regional companies aiming to capitalise on the opportunities presented by Sizewell C, The VARTAN Way offers:

• Expert Guidance and Insights: Providing businesses with in-depth knowledge about Sizewell C’s procurement processes, project timelines, and key compliance requirements. This allows companies to position themselves effectively and meet the stringent standards expected by EDF Energy and its partners.
• Tailored Strategies: Recognising that each business has unique strengths and capabilities, The VARTAN Way crafts customised strategies that align with Sizewell C’s specific needs. Whether you are in engineering, construction, logistics, or services, The VARTAN Way ensures your business stands out in a competitive landscape.
• Compliance and Certification Support: The VARTAN Way helps businesses navigate these requirements, offering certifications, health and safety protocols, and regulatory adherence support.
• Networking and Connections: Leveraging its extensive network within the industry, The VARTAN Way connects businesses with key stakeholders, decision-makers, and potential partners at Sizewell C, utilising all forms of media, including promotional filming. This facilitates valuable relationships and opens doors to collaborative opportunities.
• Bid and Proposal Development: Crafting a winning bid requires more than a competitive price. The VARTAN Way assists businesses in developing compelling proposals that highlight their unique value propositions, capabilities, and alignment with Sizewell C’s strategic goals.

Miles Vartan continues: “With Sizewell C poised to play a critical role in the UK’s energy future, now is the time for businesses to position themselves for success. The VARTAN Way stands ready to guide companies through every step, from understanding the initial requirements to executing final contracts. By embracing our unique offering, businesses can secure their share of opportunities at Sizewell C and enhance their capabilities, reputation, and long-term growth prospects in the infrastructure sector.”

If your business is looking to tap into the vast potential of Sizewell C, please click here for more information or to schedule a consultation or email info@vartanconsultancy.com

Image: Miles Vartan

Many goods or passenger vehicle operators with operator’s licences stumble over “Periods of Grace”. Some lose their licences by not navigating them correctly. No licence may mean no business.

So, what are they, why are they needed, and what should operators do to ensure they manage them correctly?

Standard licence holders will need to apply for Periods of Grace if they cannot meet one or more of the mandatory elements of their licence.

These are:

• professional competence: there has to be at least one person qualified with a Transport Manager’s Certificate of Professional Competence (TMCPC)
• financial standing: access to £8,000 for the first vehicle and £4,500 for additional vehicles – £1,600/£800 for light go0ds vehicles
• a stable and effective establishment: where business documentation is kept and there is access to vehicles.

In reality, the main problem areas for which Periods of Grace are required relate to Transport Managers and Financial Standing.

If an operator cannot meet what is required, the Traffic Commissioner (the regulator who issues the licences) has to be informed – and if the Traffic Commissioner is not notified, then that is a failure on the part of the operator to declare this and is a licence breach.

Periods of Grace cater for things that will happen to businesses from time to time. If a Period of Grace is granted, then this is a ‘bridge’ until such time as the operator can meet the requirement.

Transport Managers

There are a number of reasons why a Transport Manager may no longer be engaged as either an internal Transport Manager or an external one. They may die, be ill, be dismissed, retire, be unhappy with the operator or wish to move on to a new job.

It would be nonsensical if the operator’s licence had to dissolve simply because of such a normal event as that might occur. The period of grace provides a solution. However, it must be managed properly by the operator.

When a Transport Manager leaves a business, the operator will remove the Transport Manager from the licence (using the VOL online system), and the Transport Manager will/should likely also notify the Traffic Commissioner of their departure. Either event will automatically trigger a letter being sent to the operator (via the VOL system), setting out what information is required by the Traffic Commissioner. (This assumes there is no remaining Transport Manager on the licence – but even then, there might be a letter asking how the fleet will be managed with one Transport manager less; however, in that situation, it is not a ‘bare’ licence with simply no Transport Manager at all, of course).

It will not suffice simply to ask for a Period of Grace for a bridging period – this must be requested, of course, but there needs to be substance: a clear path forward that (a) states what arrangements there are for a new Transport Manager and (b) sets out how transport is to be managed without a Transport Manager – or, as the Senior Traffic Commissioner has put it: “that the continued operation of vehicles won’t compromise road safety.”

The operator must go through this procedure – if it is simply left undone, the requirements of a Transport Manager will be unfulfilled – and the licence will be revoked if detected.

It is not a given that the Period of Grace will definitely be granted – however, if a proper plan of action is in place, this should not present a problem. It is incumbent on the operator to sort out the recruitment of a new internal and external Transport Manager, and we advise this being evidenced, e.g. copy advertisement, selection criteria, details of a number of applications, interview timetable and dates, etc. The more information provided, the clearer the picture of a responsible approach being taken.

Operators must keep an eye on the duration of the period of grace and not let it expire. The total cannot exceed six months, save in the event of the death/incapacity of the Transport Manager. Ordinarily, it will be a (hopefully) one or (possibly) a two-stage process with an initial period granted by the Traffic Commissioner, with the leeway of a further extension up to six months.

If the operator lets the period of grace expire, then revocation of the operator’s licence may take place due to there simply being no ‘professional competence’, as happened in a recent case involving a local council that failed to address the requirement to have a nominated Transport Manager, much to the disgruntlement of local residents whose dustbins could not be collected!

Recent guidance issued by the Senior Traffic Commissioner states that even if there is evidence that the Transport Manager requirements can now be met or if there is an application to extend the existing period of grace, the Traffic Commissioner has to be given sufficient time to consider it.

The Senior Traffic Commissioner has also made the following position clear: ‘… because it is accepted at the outset of granting a Period of Grace that a mandatory licence requires it is no longer met, there is no right to a request of Public Inquiry after that time limit has expired.’

Therefore, it can be seen that not managing a period of grace can be fatal.

Financial standing

We have referred primarily to Transport Managers so far. However, the same applies in relation to financial standing. If an operator cannot fulfil the finance requirements, the Period of Grace has to be applied for in order for the operator to then provide evidence of its ability to demonstrate the financial wherewithal. Then, evidence has to be actually supplied within the period stipulated by the Traffic Commissioner, following the normal finance evidence rules (e.g. three months’ bank statements, etc).

If you require advice and assistance concerning any investigation carried out by DVSA and/or advice concerning operator licensing (including Traffic Commissioner Public Inquiry and preliminary hearing matters), please contact Ashtons.