A new development bringing highly skilled jobs and significant investment to west Cumbria is earmarked for the Port of Workington.
Subject to the necessary planning and regulatory permissions, Cavendish Nuclear, together with its delivery partner Amentum, will be constructing a new facility at the port.
This development is part of their wider project to support the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) with decommissioning of the Monju Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR), in Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
The new facility will be operated by a joint venture between Cavendish Nuclear and Amentum and will treat the sodium coolant removed from Monju.
News of the planned facility follows on from recent work carried out at the port and neighbouring Oldside to clear land, preparing it for future development.
The work to clear land is being carried out by Thomas Armstrong Construction on behalf of Cumberland Council, as owners and operators of the port, and is being funded by around £4.5 million in Government funding as part of the Workington Town Deal. It is part of a wider regeneration project which includes the Workington Gateway and the opening up of better transport links in the town centre.
The construction and operation of the sodium treatment plant will support skilled jobs both directly and more widely across the supply chain, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said: “This is fantastic news for the port as this new development, subject to the necessary approvals, will bring good quality jobs to Workington and support the wider supply chain and local economy.
“We're extending a warm welcome to our new partners and look forward to working with all those involved over the coming weeks and months."
The plans for Oldside and the port are part of a long-term initiative to develop the area as a hub for clean energy, manufacturing and intermodal logistics which will support wider regional growth.
A spokesperson representing Cavendish Nuclear and Amentum said: “Cavendish Nuclear and Amentum are grateful to Cumberland Council and the Port’s management team for their support in enabling our design and construction programme to move to the next phase.
“We are fully committed to adding real social value to West Cumbia and this new venture will contribute to the regeneration on the Port of Workington and support the local economy.”
