A small truck hire business in Weedon Bec, Northamptonshire has raised its fortunes thanks to the work it has secured supporting HS2’s construction.
GCN Tipperhire Ltd began their HS2 journey as a two-man team transporting aggregate materials to HS2 construction sites. The company now plays a vital role in HS2’s drive to reduce carbon emissions, by collecting materials from HS2’s railheads and transporting them the final mile to construction sites in Warwickshire and Northamptonshire.
In November 2021, Paul Heard and Gary Niblett, who co-own the business, were running operations with just two tipper trucks and two operatives. The sheer volume of work they have been awarded by HS2’s construction partner, EKFB, has now enabled them to expand their workforce, from two staff to 10, and acquire six new state-of-the-art vehicles – all in just a year.
Paul Heard, co-owner of GCN Tipper Hire Ltd said:
“Our rapid expansion is all down to the contracts we’ve been awarded working on HS2. Not only is this helping our small business to thrive, but it also means we’ve been able to employ more local people, which is a welcome boost for the area.
“We’ve invested in the most carbon-efficient lorries on the market, as we know this stands us in good stead to help HS2 reach its Net-Zero carbon aim. We’re proud to be playing a part in Britain’s new railway, and we’re challenging ourselves to become even cleaner and greener in the future by going all-electric.”
HS2 has a rapidly expanding supply chain. 2,760 businesses have delivered work on Britain’s flagship mega-project so far, with 96% of contracts being awarded to UK-based businesses.
Ruth Todd, Chief Commercial Officer at HS2 Ltd said:
“SMEs have a vital role to play in our supply chain. Paul and Gary’s achievements over the last year, and their dedication to supporting our Net-Zero carbon aim, is testament to the robustness of our supply chain. Companies of all sizes, right across the UK, are coming together to build HS2 and we’re delighted to have them on board.”
586 businesses in the East Midlands are already supplying goods, services and materials supporting HS2’s construction. And with a two-decade long construction programme ahead, as HS2 extends its journey north, there are thousands more contract opportunities available.