The Beginning for RK Bell Ltd

RK Bell Ltd was founded in 1941 by Robert Kitchener Bell. RK Bell Ltd began as a small independent agricultural contractor based in Bridgwater, Somerset. Robert provided his customers with a reliable service and, due to this, by the 1950’s he had transformed into a well-established Plant Hire and Transport company.

 

Second & Third Generation of RK Bell Ltd

In 1972 Robert handed over the business to the second generation, Richard Bell. Richard continued to develop on the strong foundations and develop the business further. In 2005, he in turn handed over the business to his son, Nick Bell.

 

Expansion to RK Bell Group

In 2008, the decision to broaden the ranges for the business led to the formation of a second company called RK Bell Projects Ltd, which added Civil Engineering and Groundworks into the now multi-faceted construction business.

Through hard work and careful planning the newly formed RK Bell Group experienced a steady increase in growth; this led to the decision to add a Surfacing Department to the RK Bell Projects Civils division in 2010, which enabled the Group to take advantage of complex Highways & Infrastructure schemes offered by the Industry. Additionally, the ability to offer a complete construction package of Civil Engineering, Surfacing, Plant Hire and Transport soon revealed itself to be of considerable competitive value to their client base, which was then enhanced further by being able to process the waste generated in house with its own licensed waste recycling landfill facility.

 

RK Bell Group on the way to Industry Accreditation Standard           

RK Bell Group focused the business efforts in 2013 on the certifications for an Industry Accreditation Standard, as well as becoming Nuclear Approved to provide the business with the opportunity to gain large and prestigious contracts for the coming years. In October of the same year the group was presented with the Somerset Business Award for Business of the year in the small business (26-50 Employees) category.

 

February 2016 marked another milestone for the group, as the business gained certification for the Quality Management Standard ISO9001. To access all of the certificates held for RK Bell Group, please click here.

 

RK Bell Group and Hinkley Point C

This achievement sparked a chain of exciting events. This included the collaboration with Somerset Infrastructure Alliance, and in August 2016 this led to RK Bell Group securing a ten-year contract with EDF Energy for Hinkley Point C. Click here to see more about our Hinkley associated sites.

 

Being involved with a project of such national importance has given the business a range of challenges but above all huge opportunities to raise the bar in its capabilities, kick starting apprenticeships schemes and the upskilling of staff, which has been very evident since the start of 2017. Since the signing of the contract, staff levels have risen dramatically with all areas of the group busier than ever before. For details of upcoming vacancies, please click here.

​

Acquisition of GWorks Surfacing

In 2023, RK Bell Group expanded its capabilities further by acquiring the majority shareholding of GWorks Surfacing. This strategic acquisition has strengthened the Group’s surfacing division, enhancing its ability to deliver high-quality infrastructure solutions. The integration of GWorks Surfacing into RK Bell Group has allowed the business to broaden its service offerings, providing clients with an even more comprehensive construction package.

Future Plans…

The emphasis for the coming years will be to build on the positive developments of the company and upskill our workforce, whilst continuously maintaining a reliable and cost effective service for our ever-growing customer base. This will enable us to future proof the business for generations to come.

​