The Nuclear Decommissioning Agency's proposal to restore the former Winfrith nuclear site in Dorset to natural heathland is expected to face opposition from the neighbouring Dorset Innovation Park, which hopes to use part of the land to create jobs.
Masterplan Proposes Full Restoration
A masterplan for the site, with a 15-20 year outlook, currently indicates that the entire former nuclear facility, including 21 hectares adjoining the innovation park, would be returned to natural heathland. Nick Webster, head of growth and economic regeneration at Dorset Council, told an innovation park shareholders committee on Tuesday that the heathland restoration proposal was "an issue" for the park, though a final decision is still some way off.
Decommissioning Timeline and Council's Position
Decommissioning of the remaining nuclear site is estimated to take 8-10 years, with heathland restoration to follow if it proceeds. Webster noted that the masterplan is open for comment and Dorset Council will need to consider its position, potentially arguing that not all of the site should be converted to heathland.
Innovation Park Exceeds Financial Expectations
The same meeting heard that the innovation park received £466,000 more in retained business rates than anticipated, totalling £976,000 against the projected £510,000. Council finance portfolio holder Cllr Simon Clifford welcomed the figures but called for an investigation into why initial estimates were so far off. Webster said the additional funding would strengthen the park's long-term viability and allow greater investment in projects.
Job Creation Plans at Risk
The park, owned by Dorset Council, aims to create around 800 jobs through site development, doubling the current workforce spread across about 40 businesses, with a focus on defence, advanced engineering, research, and green energy. It houses BattleLab, a Nato-accredited testing facility operated with the Ministry of Defence. Current proposals include 300 new jobs by 2031, though the original target was 2029, according to the council's corporate plan. The site is Dorset's only Enterprise Zone, allowing it to retain 100% of business rate growth.
