25 July 2008
NWDA statement welcoming the Green Light for National Nuclear
Laboratory in West Cumbria
Commenting on Wednesday’s statement by Energy Secretary, John
Hutton, confirming that the Government will establish a National
Nuclear Laboratory in Cumbria, Bryan Gray, Chairman of the
Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), said:
“The NWDA and partners in the region have been working hard to
secure this facility for Cumbria. This is an excellent example of
national government working with the region, national industry and
research bodies to gather this evidence and take a decision based
on the long-term needs of a vital and economically important
sector.
This confirmation, paving the way for the Laboratory to go
ahead, shows that the Government has recognised the importance of
ensuring the ongoing competitiveness and success of the UK’s
excellent skills and facilities in civil nuclear
research.
The Northwest, and West Cumbria in particular, is home to over
50% of the UK’s civil nuclear workforce and the vast majority of
its research excellence and is the most suitable location for this
facility. The region has a vital role to play in ensuring
that the UK maintains its competitiveness in this area.
The National Nuclear Laboratory will be an international centre
of excellence in nuclear research and development, playing a vital
role in cleaning up both the UK's nuclear waste legacy, and also
contributing to the programme of nuclear new build.
The Agency will continue to work with partners in delivering
this important project for the region and the UK.”