A consortium led by global professional services company Turner & Townsend, in partnership with multi-disciplinary firm WSP and global nuclear experts NUVIA UK, has been appointed to provide advisory services for the set-up of the UK’s Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Programme.

The £2.5bn programme is designed to build a first-of-a-kind SMR project by the mid-2030s, a pivotal step in advancing new nuclear technology, and supporting the UK government’s nuclear ambitions.

It’s expected to play a vital role in the provision of low-carbon energy, enhancing energy security and driving economic growth through innovation and investment in nuclear infrastructure.

The appointment has been made by Great British Energy - Nuclear (GBE-N).

The news comes just two weeks after Rolls-Royce SMR was named as the selected technology in the Great British Nuclear (GBN) small modular reactor (SMR) competition – and the government made further major funding announcements for nuclear power, including for the Sizewell C nuclear plant.

Turner & Townsend, WSP and NUVIA UK will together provide a range of programme advisory services, including strategic planning, organisational design, governance and assurance, commercial and project controls, and business case development, to set the programme up for success. 

The consortium’s objectives will be centred on putting the processes, systems and controls in place to help ensure the programme delivers against an ambitious timeline and regulatory requirements, mitigating risk and maximising value for taxpayers.

The team will also contribute to the set-up of a new development company, support major permissions processes, and advise on the entire lifecycle of delivery from construction to decommissioning. The appointment is for an initial one-year term, with the option to extend for a further year.

Alan Sinclair, director and head of energy and natural resources at Turner & Townsend UK, said: “The Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Programme represents a transformative moment for the UK’s energy future. 

“These projects will not only help generate clean, secure power, but they will also unlock export potential and drive growth across the UK’s nuclear sector, boosting economic resilience, and positioning the country as a global leader in low-carbon innovation. 

“Our appointment is a clear reflection of the depth and strength of our nuclear advisory expertise.  We’re looking forward to building on our existing relationship with Great British Energy - Nuclear to get the programme set up to deliver the best outcomes for communities and the UK economy.”

Rachel Cook, strategic growth director for nuclear at WSP, added: “We are delighted to have joined forces with Turner & Townsend and Nuvia to provide Advisory Services to the Great British Energy - Nuclear SMR Programme.

“Our breadth of reach-back expertise perfectly complements Turner & Townsend’s programme controls and Nuvia’s technical excellence. Together, we will help build truly clean, reliable power and cement Britain’s place at the forefront of next-generation reactor technology.”