Behind the scenes with NeuConnect.
When we think of community engagement, what comes to mind? Many envision an older demographic gathered in a community hall, giving feedback on proposals. Others might think of sporadic newsletters with project updates. But how do we move beyond these outdated notions and get a younger, more diverse audience interested in our built environment?
Well funnily enough, our team has been working on the critical NeuConnect project to do just that.
NeuConnect is one of Europe’s largest energy projects, providing a vital link between the UK and Germany. It will create a 725 km interconnector, connecting electricity between England and Germany. Given the project’s scale, our team was tasked with developing an engagement programme that reached diverse groups and ages.
So in June and July, we organised a work experience programme for local year 10 and 12 students interested in energy, construction, or engineering careers. We gave 24 students from schools in Gillingham and Kent firsthand industry experiences and site visits, opening their eyes to the breadth of careers the energy sector can offer.
Initiatives like this ensure our clients develop pathways for people of all ages to participate in critical infrastructure and in this instance, has provided NeuConnect with a crucial link to a potential future workforce. NeuConnect CEO Arnaud Grevoz captured it’s importance perfectly – “Developing a skilled future workforce is crucial for delivering the UK’s energy and Net Zero ambitions. We want to use the NeuConnect project to inspire a new generation to work in engineering, construction, and infrastructure. With work well underway, our work experience programme offers local students a unique opportunity to learn about one of Europe’s largest energy projects and the exciting career opportunities it presents.”
If you think your project could benefit from our support or services on your critical infrastructure project please reach out to us here.
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All change at Westminster.
A new government means a new political landscape. New relationships to build, new priorities to understand, and a new ecosystem of advisors and influencers to navigate.
Creating opportunities with NeuConnect.
We organised a work experience programme for students to help boost their career prospects in the energy, construction, and engineering industries. Check out the behind the scenes.
Build, Britain, build.
The Labour Government’s manifesto centred around ‘change’ to make its mark on the country. Wanting to get going, the Government has committed to revising the NPPF by the end of this year.
Hear from our experts.
What does the new UK Labour Government mean for Nuclear and the Renewables Sectors?
Olivia White.
Director
Nuclear supports the Government’s priorities to decarbonise electricity whilst delivering new jobs, skills and investment. We look forward to some early announcements about nuclear from the new government, including on the SMR competition, a Final Investment Decision on Sizewell C and the outcome of consultations on a new National Policy Statement for siting nuclear power generation and Alternative Routes to Market for New Nuclear Projects.
Whilst Labour has traditionally been a little more reticent towards nuclear, there are plenty of opportunities to showcase long-term commitment to the sector.
Steven Park.
Executive Director
For the renewables sector, the new Government started very positively by approving three solar DCOs in addition to releasing a policy statement about removing current barriers to delivering onshore wind in England; with a commitment to doubling onshore wind energy by 2030. As can be seen from Scotland’s positive approach to onshore wind and other forms for renewables, a similar stance by the UK Government will hopefully see more opportunities, jobs and investment come forward.
The National Planning Policy Framework announcement added to this positivity, seeking to “direct decision makers to give significant weight to the benefits associated with renewable and low carbon energy generation” and reintegrating onshore wind into the NSIP regime.
Questions remain about what Great British Energy’s role as both an investor and developer will be. But as a proud ‘Aberdonian’, where GB Energy will be based is just as important a question to me.
Thursday 19th September
Cavendish Midlands Summer Party.
The new West Midlands Mayor, Richard Parker, will set out his vision for the region at our Summer Party in Birmingham on Thursday 19th September.
We’d love you to join us at the Cosy Club, Birmingham from 6pm for drinks and canapes, and an opportunity to hear how the Mayor wants to work with colleagues from across the built environment to build the homes, workplaces and leisure facilities of the future in Birmingham.
The party, which we’re hosting in partnership with Vistry Group, will carry on till late with an open bar and live music. Our Birmingham events are always popular (did we mention the free drinks?!), and a great way of catching up with colleagues and politicians from across the region. We hope to see you there.
If you’d like to come along, please click RSVP below.
