STEP Fusion and Historic England have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together to protect the historic character of the West Burton site – the future home of the UK prototype fusion power plant.
The agreement was signed by Claudia Kenyatta, co-CEO of Historic England, and Paul Methven, CEO of UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Limited and responsible officer for STEP Fusion. It sets out a shared ambition to ensure that the transformation of the site remains sensitive to the heritage and natural environment of the area.
West Burton is deeply rooted in the UK’s energy story. It powered the nation and was part of the famous Megawatt Valley, with a high concentration of power generating facilities along the River Trent. In years to come the site will be home to a clean energy revolution, the site of the first-of-its-kind fusion power plant.
The MoU reflects commitment to responsible stewardship of historic areas and cultural legacy, including areas of special interest in the site, such as the site of the former medieval village and chapel, close to the power station, which is protected as a Scheduled Monument.
Paul Methven, CEO of STEP Fusion, said: “The STEP Fusion endeavour is bold and considered. We are committed to working with partners such as Historic England to ensure that the story of West Burton continues and that the past is respected and protected. We believe that innovation and conservation can work hand in hand on our site.”
Claudia Kenyatta, co-CEO of Historic England, added: “We’re delighted to be working with STEP Fusion to help shape a future for West Burton and support our shared heritage whilst moving forward to an exciting new era for the site.
“This MoU demonstrates our shared commitment to the distinctive historic environment and the long history of energy production in North Nottinghamshire.”
The MoU will guide ongoing collaboration between STEP Fusion and Historic England including considerations at the early planning stages as the programme progresses towards construction in 2030.
