Stobbarts has secured a 15-year framework deal, worth up to £40m, which will see the firm support key delivery partner Sir Robert McAlpine on groundworks and concrete.

Because the work is long-term, Stobbarts can continue its ambitious growth strategy, recruiting more local people and investing in its apprenticeship programme.

There are also plans to develop its existing facilities and expand into new premises nearby.

Adam Stobbart, director of Stobbarts, said: “Being part of a long-term framework with PPP allows us to continue employing local people and increase our apprentice numbers.

“As we embark on this new chapter, we remain committed to innovation, sustainability, and community enrichment.”

Since mobilising in 2019, The Sellafield Programme and Project Partners framework has awarded contracts with a potential value of £3bn.

The partnership is now working with around 200 suppliers from across the UK, with 40 per cent based in the north-west and almost 70 per cent being SMEs.

John Rossiter, head of PPP supply chain, said: “The PPP model is entering an exciting period as we start to see the growth of our Tier 3 layer of suppliers joining the enterprise.

“It marks a radical shift in how major projects have been delivered to date. It’s incredible to see true collaboration and the benefits being realised as our supply chain grows.”