North Somerset businesses are being encouraged to register their interest in contracts for the Epic campus development in Long Ashton, a 90-acre technology campus for US healthcare technology company Epic, delivered by Gilbert-Ash. The project is one of the region's largest construction programmes.
Project details and opportunities
The controversial scheme, approved last year, includes office buildings, a 3,000-seat auditorium, a training facility and a solar field on green belt land between Long Ashton and Bristol. Despite more than 700 objections, Wisconsin-based Epic said its European HQ would bring 2,150 high-quality jobs to North Somerset and boost the local economy by £140m a year.
A number of work packages are now being brought to market through Somerset Chamber of Commerce's Somerset Supply Chain, with opportunities spanning construction, fit-out, engineering and specialist trades. Current and future opportunities include scaffolding (£500,000), brickwork (£700,000 to £800,000), drylining (£2m), electrical contractor LV (£1m to £3m), pipework and ventilation (£2m to £5m), soft flooring, painting and decorating, doors and joinery, fitted furniture, tiling, signage, and builders' merchants and material supply.
Timeline and support programme
Several packages are expected to progress throughout 2026 and 2027, with further opportunities anticipated as the development advances through its phased construction programme. Somerset Chamber of Commerce has been appointed by North Somerset Council to deliver phase one of a business engagement and supply chain support programme related to the Epic Campus project.
Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council's cabinet member for sustainable places, said: "These contract opportunities give North Somerset's construction sector a real chance to be part of one of the region's most significant developments, supporting local jobs, skills and supply chains while delivering lasting benefits for communities across North Somerset."
How to register
David Crew, managing director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, said: "We're keen to hear from North Somerset businesses that want to be part of this transformational project. These opportunities cover a broad range of trades and services, from specialist contractors through to suppliers and merchants."
"By registering on the Somerset Supply Chain portal, businesses can make sure they are visible to contractors and are among the first to hear about opportunities as they become available." It is free to register on the Somerset Supply Chain portal and businesses that do will receive information about relevant tenders, engagement events and supplier support opportunities associated with the Epic Campus project.
Sam Orchard, supply chain engagement lead at Somerset Chamber of Commerce, added: "We know there is considerable expertise within North Somerset's construction sector, and we want businesses of all sizes, from sole traders and microbusinesses to established contractors, to engage with us now."
