Express Reinforcements Ltd (ERL) is in line for a contract to supply 200,000 tonnes of reinforcing steel for the planned Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset.

It is preferred bidder for a contract, worth more than £100m, with BYLOR, the joint venture between Bouygues TP and Laing O’Rourke.

Express Reinforcements was acquired by Spain’s Celas Group in 2009. Along with BRC Ltd and ROM Group, it forms Celsa Steel UK. Express is based in Neath, has manufacturing capability in Newport and uses steel produced by Celsa Steel in Cardiff.

Managing director Andy Lodge said: “We are pleased to be the preferred supplier of reinforcing steel to this contract through BYLOR. It cements long-term relationships and puts Express at the forefront of reinforcing steel supply, having already been a major supplier to other key infrastructure projects such as Crossrail and Heathrow Terminal 5. It shows that our proven track record in delivering on these significant projects is highly valued and local, responsibly-sourced steel to the highest quality standards (Eco-Reinforcement/BES 6001) is fundamental to all involved on this construction.”

BYLOR project director Martin Westbury said, “The Bouygues TP/Laing O’Rourke joint venture is delighted at the prospect of working with Express Reinforcements as our preferred supplier to the Hinkley Point C project. The choice supports our strategy of working with the UK supply chain wherever possible, using UK-sourced materials.  BYLOR is currently working closely with EDF Energy to prepare the site at Hinkley Point C for the main construction programme, so that when full governmental approval is received, work can commence in earnest without delay.”