Somerset Chamber is proud to support a diverse range of organisations in the Somerset business community who are as passionate about our region as we are.
In the latest in our ongoing series of interviews, we will be shining a spotlight on some of our Business Partners, recognising their commitment to Somerset, its business community and beyond.
Somerset Voices is also a chance to find out more about the people behind the brands!
Our next Somerset Voices spotlight is on Tom Kenyon, Project Director, at Costain:
Please introduce yourself and tell us about your role. What does a typical day look like for you?
I am Tom Kenyon, a Project Director with Costain, where I have worked for 20 years. I am a Civil Engineer and have worked in predominantly highways sector projects for 25 years post graduate.
At present my days involve commuting to either the Design consultant or National Highways offices to be collocated with the M5 Bridgwater J22a Integrated Project Team from my home, based just west of Cardiff. The work is currently in the development phase, undertaking the detailed design, understanding the constraints, while planning the construction phase of the works.
Can you tell us about your business/organisation, what you do, where you’re based and how your work has a positive impact on those you work with?
I work for Costain, which is a British construction and engineering company, within the roads sector, where I have the role as Project Director for the M5 Bridgwater J22a, required primarily for the access into the new Agratas gigafactory currently under construction. My base varies but typically spend time at National Highways in Bristol (our client) and WSP offices in Cardiff (our appointed designer).
This project will help economic growth in the South West of England so for me and those involved in the project it gives a real sense of purpose.
What do you enjoy most about doing business in Somerset?
The people. The diverse range of businesses who are members and the ability to network and have contact with those where resources can be shared and experiences shared to support the South West businesses. Some member businesses will interact with the M5J22a due to the nature of work and proximity of other live contracts under construction.
Outside of work, what’s your ‘Somerset favourite’, as in a place to visit or activity you like to do in our county?
I have visited Cheddar a few times and it’s a great place.
How long have you been members of Somerset Chamber of Commerce and what prompted you to join?
We joined early February 2026 to enable for the M5 Bridgwater J22a project to have a wider connection with other businesses already a member.
What has been the most valuable aspect for you/your organisation, of being part of Somerset Chamber?
Meeting the other members, understanding what they do, seeing what opportunities we could have to utilise local businesses during the delivery of the M5J22a project.
Learning about local sensitivities and constraints we need to be aware of during construction so we can make allowances during the development phase.
What advice would you give to a business thinking of joining Somerset Chamber?
Join if you are or planning to be in the area, develop, grow your business or have business dealings in Somerset.
Join Somerset Chamber of Commerce to give your business a stronger voice both locally, regionally and nationally. Combined with local town chambers, we represent over 2,000 businesses across Somerset with a direct line to policy-makers at all levels.
