West Cumbria is set to play a leading role in the UK’s next generation of nuclear power, following the publication today of the Government’s new Advanced Nuclear Framework.
The framework provides a clear route to market for advanced nuclear projects and is expected to accelerate the delivery of new nuclear at Pioneer Park, supporting high-quality jobs, clean energy and long-term economic growth for the area.
Pioneer Park, land next to the existing Sellafield site, has already been identified by the Government as a priority site for advanced nuclear development, and work is now underway locally to take the project forward.
Development of a masterplan for the site will begin this month, co-ordinated by local partners and guided by the Cumberland Nuclear Future Board.
The Advanced Nuclear Framework introduces a national pipeline of credible projects and a dedicated concierge-style support service for developers, helping them navigate planning, regulation and financing. For Pioneer Park, this creates a tailor-made process to select the right development partner and move more quickly from ambition to delivery.
Josh MacAlister, MP for Whitehaven & Workington, said: “This framework is a major step forward for West Cumbria. It gives us the backing we need from the Government while putting local leadership firmly in the driving seat.
“Pioneer Park has huge potential, and this new approach allows us to move faster, attract serious private investment, and deliver new nuclear that works for our community.
“This is about jobs, skills, and securing West Cumbria’s future at the heart of the UK’s clean energy system.”
Advanced nuclear technologies, including small and advanced modular reactors, are manufactured in factories and assembled on site, allowing projects to be delivered more quickly and at lower cost.
They can supply clean power to the grid or directly to industry, supporting growing demand from sectors such as manufacturing and data centres.
Michael Pemberton, chief executive of BEC, which led the market engagement exercise for Pioneer Park and will deliver the masterplan for the site, added: “The Advanced Nuclear Framework aligns strongly with the work already underway in West Cumbria.
“We are co-ordinating the development of a masterplan for Pioneer Park that is ambitious, deliverable and rooted in local strengths.
“The Government’s pipeline and developer support give us the confidence to engage the market in a structured way and bring forward a project that delivers real economic value for the area.”
West Cumbria has one of the UK’s most experienced nuclear workforces and a long-established supply chain.
The framework builds on that strength by helping credible projects unlock private investment, while ensuring value for taxpayers and billpayers.
Dianne Richardson, chief executive of Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster, said: “This is exactly the kind of clarity the nuclear industry has been asking for.
“The framework provides confidence to developers and investors and it plays to West Cumbria’s unique capabilities.
“Pioneer Park represents a pivotal opportunity for West Cumbria as by anchoring new nuclear here we sustain our skilled workforce and create new opportunities for businesses across the region.
“This in turn supports a resilient local economy and secures benefits that will be felt by families and communities for decades to come.”
Sue Ferns, senior deputy general secretary at Prospect and a member of the Cumberland Nuclear Future Board, said: “Next generation nuclear technology, like small and advanced modular reactors, provide an exciting opportunity to capitalise on the UK’s nuclear heritage and lead the way in pioneering new approaches, so it is welcome that government is acting to accelerate development with this Framework.
“Prospect will work with government and industry to ensure that the sector continues to create good, unionised jobs, and to develop the skilled workforce needed to power an expanded nuclear sector.”
The project at Pioneer Park will be led locally through the Cumberland Nuclear Future Board, working in partnership with the Government, industry and the local supply chain.
The aim is to ensure that development reflects local priorities while benefiting from national support.
Developers will be able to apply to join the national advanced nuclear pipeline from next month.
Successful projects will receive in-principle government endorsement and access to support to help bring schemes forward at pace
