Cumbrian engineering firm purchases 14,000 sq ft HQ from BEC

CORE Nuclear has completed the purchase of its headquarters at Lillyhall in Workington from social impact property developers BEC, marking an important milestone in the company’s growth.

The specialist remote engineering business has operated from the site since 2018, when BEC purchased the former Gen 2 building to support CORE’s move from Seascale to Lillyhall. 

The move provided the space and stability needed for the business to expand locally, supporting its ambitions to grow its workforce, invest in new capabilities and strengthen its position within the nuclear supply chain.

Since relocating to Lillyhall, CORE Nuclear has grown into a thriving SME employing over 65 people locally, creating skilled jobs and supporting apprenticeships within the region. 

John McGibbon, Managing Director of CORE Nuclear, said: “We’re thankful to BEC for their support, right from their purchase of the building for us back in 2018 and now through the sale process of our Lillyhall facility. Having previously rented the site from BEC, completing the purchase is a key milestone for CORE and strengthens our platform for growth here at Lillyhall.

“BEC’s support has been instrumental in helping us establish ourselves in Cumbria and create skilled local employment. Since moving to Lillyhall, we have continued to grow as a business, creating jobs, supporting apprenticeships and expanding our capabilities.

“Enhancing Lillyhall will allow us to tackle larger contract opportunities, better serve our clients and support our growing team.”

The business has also expanded its footprint across Cumbria, with four facilities now operating in Workington, Haile and Egremont, reflecting increasing demand for its specialist engineering, manufacturing and decommissioning expertise across the UK and Europe.

Plans for the Lillyhall site include further development of workshop and engineering space to support the company’s growing portfolio of work, including complex handling systems, manipulators and specialist equipment supporting the nuclear, decommissioning and defence sectors. 

CORE Nuclear achieved 30 per cent growth in 2025, reflecting continued demand for its services across the nuclear sector. 

Bill Graham, Director of Properties at BEC, said: “It’s been a real pleasure to support CORE Nuclear over a number of years and see the business grow and strengthen its presence in the region. The sale of the Lillyhall facility reflects the company's confidence in its future and its long-term commitment to West Cumbria.

“At BEC, we are focused on supporting businesses that create skilled employment, social value and contribute to the local economy. 

“Watching CORE reach this stage has been incredibly positive, and it shows how the right support can give businesses the confidence to invest, expand and create opportunities locally. We wish John and the team every continued success as they take the next step in their journey.”

Here at BEC, we work to deliver place-based economic development across West Cumbria, supporting businesses with the space and infrastructure they need to grow. 

CORE’s continued expansion highlights the strength of Cumbria’s nuclear sector and the important role local engineering businesses play in supporting major programmes across the UK and internationally.