Cumbria’s Pioneer Park brought into spotlight at international place-making conference

Plans for Pioneer Park, West Cumbria’s proposed clean energy and technology development, were brought into the national spotlight this week at UKREiiF in Leeds.

Here at BEC, we are progressing the major clean-energy development alongside partners, including the NDA, Sellafield Ltd, Cumberland Council, and local MPs, with support from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Pioneer Park is to be developed on up to 200 acres of land, that is already designated for new nuclear power generation, directly adjacent to the Sellafield site in West Cumbria, taking into account the existing requirements for the Sellafield site.

Representatives from BEC and Mott MacDonald who are leading on the early plans for Pioneer Park joined leaders at a packed-out event at the Cumbria Pavilion exploring how energy and regeneration are reshaping coastal communities across the UK, with Pioneer Park being used as an exemplar development. 

The event explored how regions including Cumbria are positioning themselves for long-term economic growth through clean energy, infrastructure investment and place-making.

Earlier this year, following a competitive tender process, we appointed Mott MacDonald and WSP to lead a six-month master planning programme for the site to help shape the long-term vision for Pioneer Park.

The development aims to build on the region’s internationally recognised workforce, supply chain and clean energy expertise to support future industries including advanced technologies, AI capability and low-carbon energy generation.

Our Chief Executive, Michael, said: “Pioneer Park represents a major long-term opportunity for West Cumbria and the wider UK. The project is about building on our existing strengths in clean energy, advanced technologies and innovation to support future jobs, attract investment and strengthen economic resilience across our communities.

“UKREiiF has provided an important opportunity to continue conversations with government, industry and potential partners whilst helping showcase both the ambition for Pioneer Park and the capability that already exists here in Cumberland.”

Steve Ellery, Project Director at Mott MacDonald, said: “West Cumbria is uniquely positioned to play an important role in the UK’s future energy and technology landscape. The master planning programme is helping bring together stakeholders, communities and industry to shape a realistic and deliverable long-term vision for Pioneer Park. Mott MacDonald and our partners at WSP are proud to be part of the project.”

Further engagement activities and updates around Pioneer Park will happen throughout the year as work on the emerging masterplan continues. 

You can now connect with Pioneer Park on our new social media channels @pioneerparkuk