A MAJOR clean energy and technology project is the focus of an upcoming public engagement event.
A drop-in session will take place on Tuesday, July 14 from 3pm to 7pm at The Peddler in Whitehaven, offering residents, businesses and community groups the opportunity to meet the Pioneer Park project team and help shape plans for the site.
Located near Sellafield at Moorside, Pioneer Park is a 'clean energy' and technology development led by social impact property developers BEC, in partnership with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, Sellafield Ltd, Cumberland Council, local MPs, and supported by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
The project aims to attract more than £12billion in private investment, create skilled job opportunities, and support emerging industries in West Cumbria.
Josh MacAlister MP said: "Pioneer Park is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure West Cumbria’s place at the forefront of Britain’s clean energy future.
"Our area has powered the country for generations, and this project can help make sure that the next generation of skilled jobs, investment and innovation are built here too.
"I want residents, businesses and community groups to come along, have their say, and help make sure this project delivers the jobs, skills, infrastructure and community benefits that West Cumbria deserves."
The event is part of the early-stage masterplanning process and will give attendees the chance to explore the vision for Pioneer Park, understand the types of industries it could attract, and share their views on priority areas such as skills, infrastructure and community benefits.
Michael Pemberton, chief executive of BEC, said: "From day one, we've been clear that Pioneer Park must be shaped with the people and communities it is being created to benefit.
"It's important that local people have the chance to influence its future.
"We want to hear what matters most, whether that's jobs, skills, opportunities for local businesses or wider community benefits."
Feedback gathered during the engagement programme will inform the development of the masterplan.
Pioneer Park is intended to support the UK’s clean energy ambitions while building on West Cumbria’s strengths in energy, engineering and innovation.
The vision for the site includes advanced nuclear technologies, clean energy, robotics, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and research.
A second engagement opportunity will be available for those unable to attend, with the project team also appearing at the Gosforth Agricultural Show on Saturday, August 15.
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