Category: Business

WORK has begun on a £50 million regeneration project that will transform a derelict parcel of industrial land into one of the most significant centres for innovation, manufacturing and technology in the North of England. 

Ground crews have moved onto Leconfield Industrial Estate in Cleator Moor to begin work on the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) Enterprise Campus, a development designed to bring together ambitious businesses, skilled workers and industry leaders in a single location. 

The first phase will see the construction of two high-specification business units at a cost of £23.6 million, creating space for companies to grow, collaborate and invest in the area. The buildings are expected to be completed by the end of 2027. 

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “We’ve spent a lot of time talking to businesses, partners and the local community about what we want to achieve here, so seeing people and machinery on site finally makes it very real. 

“For me, this is about much more than buildings. It’s about creating a place where the doers, fixers and problem-solvers can come together, share ideas and grow, and where local people can connect to the jobs and opportunities that growth creates. 

“This is an exciting moment for Cleator Moor and West Cumbria, and now the hard work really starts – making sure we turn this investment into something that delivers for the area for many years to come.” 

The iSH Enterprise Campus is an economic regeneration initiative led by Cumberland Council with funding and support from Government through Town Deal and Levelling Up programmes, and other strategic partners including the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and Sellafield Ltd. 

The development of the site forms part of the wider regeneration programme being delivered across West Cumbria by iSH. 

The Campus is intended to become a focal point for the region’s growing capabilities in robotics, advanced manufacturing, engineering and digital technologies, creating a place where businesses can collaborate, innovate and grow while connecting local people with new skills, careers and opportunities. 

Euan Hutton, Sellafield Ltd CEO, said: “We’re proud to support iSH and the development of the iSH Enterprise Campus. 

“This is about supporting our mission while creating lasting social and economic impact. 

“We’re particularly keen for our supply chain to actively engage. My message to our supply chain is simple: engage with iSH, be part of the campus, and help us build a stronger industrial capability here in west Cumbria.” 

Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said: “This is another important step forward for this project and is great news for Cleator Moor and the wider Cumberland economy.  

“We want our area to grow and to thrive. Developments of this type support the foundation for future investment.” 

iSH delivers programmes that build on the region’s nuclear heritage to showcase its capacity for industrial innovation and technical capability.” 

James Garnett – Operations Director, Morgan Sindall Construction, added: “We are pleased to be working with Cumberland Council and iSH to bring forward this important development in Cleator Moor. The Enterprise Campus represents a significant investment in the future of West Cumbria, creating high-quality, sustainable space that will support business growth, innovation, and skills development across the region.  

“As construction gets underway, our focus will be on delivering facilities that provide long-term value for the local economy, while also creating opportunities for local people and businesses throughout the build process. We look forward to playing our part in helping realise the ambitions for the Enterprise Campus and supporting the wider generation of the area.” 

The units provide double height flexible workspace and will be tailored to meet the needs of the local and regional business community, with the flexibility to support a range of uses including: 

Single occupancy by established businesses. 

‘Grow-on’ units for businesses looking to take the next step. 

High-quality industrial materials will be used with strong but simple aesthetics with muted black cladding for the external envelope with vibrant accent colour cladding to gables.     

Features include:  

• Subdivision potential – can be configured to meet varied business needs.  
• Steel frame construction with modern, insulated cladding. 
• Ample space for loading, storage and on-site parking. 
• Flexible internal layout to suit occupier requirements. 
• Powered by green energy Including photovoltaic panels and heat pumps. 
• EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) ‘A’ rating. 
• EV charging. 
• Eaves height 8m. 

Any businesses interested in finding out more, should contact: 

Miranda.Kirschel@ishco.co.uk   

A contractor has been appointed to deliver high quality industrial buildings at the iSH Enterprise Campus on the Leconfield Industrial Estate in Cleator Moor.

Cumberland Council has appointed Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd to build Unit 9 and Unit 12.

Work is expected to start on site in August this year and the new units are expected to be available from late 2027.

The Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) Enterprise Campus is an economic regeneration initiative led by Cumberland Council with funding and support from Government through Town Deal and Levelling Up programmes, and other strategic partners including the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and Sellafield Ltd.

The development of the site forms part of the wider regeneration programme being delivered across West Cumbria by iSH focused upon delivering economic growth opportunities around robotics, manufacturing and digital.

Darren Crossley, Cumberland Council’s Director of Place and Economy, said: “This is another important step forward for this project and is great news for Cleator Moor and the wider Cumberland economy. We want our area to grow and to thrive. Developments of this type support the foundation for future investment.”

iSH delivers programmes that build on the region’s nuclear heritage to showcase its capacity for industrial innovation and technical capability.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “This is an important milestone, and we’re pleased to see the development progressing through to fruition. The iSH Enterprise Campus is a place where industrial development and innovation will come together to enable economic inclusive growth.”

Bruce Burnett, Operations Manager, from Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd said: “We are delighted to have been appointed by Cumberland Council to deliver these high-quality buildings within the ISH Enterprise Campus.

“The project will create flexible accommodation designed to support business growth, innovation and investment across West Cumbria and we look forward to working closely with Cumberland Council, iSH and stakeholders to deliver facilities that create lasting benefits for Cleator Moor and the region.”

The units provide double height flexible workspace and will be tailored to meet the needs of the local and regional business community, with the flexibility to support a range of uses including:

• Single occupancy by established businesses.
• ‘Grow-on’ units for businesses looking to take the next step

High-quality industrial materials will be used with strong but simple aesthetics with muted black cladding for the external envelope with vibrant accent colour cladding to gables.

Proposed features include:

• Subdivision potential – can be configured to meet varied business needs.
• Steel frame construction with modern, insulated cladding.
• Ample space for loading, storage and on-site parking.
• Flexible internal layout to suit occupier requirements.
• Powered by green energy Including photovoltaic panels and heat pumps.
• EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) ‘A’ rating.
• EV charging.
• Eaves height 8m.

Any businesses interested in finding out more, should contact: · Miranda.Kirschel@ishco.co.uk · Barbara.Vernon@Cumberland.gov.uk

Plans for a multimillion-pound industrial hub, located at the heart of the Leconfield Estate in Cleator Moor, have been approved.

Cumberland Council and the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) put forward the application for the iSH Hub – a new, flexible innovation building designed to support start-up and early-stage businesses focused upon advanced manufacturing and products, robotics and AI.

It forms part of the Cleator Moor Town Deal and is also supported by Sellafield Ltd and NDA. Today’s Planning Committee gave the go-ahead to the development.

Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said: “This is great news for Cleator Moor and the wider Cumberland economy. We want our area to grow and to thrive. Developments of this type support the foundation for future investment.”

Cleator Moor Town Deal Chair, Bob Metcalfe, said: “This is another important milestone and will drive forward this exciting site. It will provide lasting benefits for residents and the local economy.”

The development of the site forms part of the wider regeneration programme being delivered across West Cumbria by iSH focused upon delivering economic growth opportunities around robotics, manufacturing and digital.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “Approval for the iSH hub marks a significant milestone for us. The hub will create a collaborative environment where industry, academia and innovators can come together to solve real-world challenges, while driving long-term economic growth and high-quality jobs in the region.”

The hub will provide high-quality workspaces, shared facilities and collaborative areas, helping new businesses to grow locally and strengthen West Cumbria’s skills base.

Tracey West, Head of Social Impact at Sellafield Ltd, added: “It’s great to see the iSH hub getting to this advanced stage.

“Sellafield Ltd and NDA contributed over £10m to the project which helped leverage significant investment from Government.

“This reflects our commitment to economic regeneration and supporting the development of local towns.”

The development will act as a focal point for regeneration, working alongside existing and new businesses on the estate. The scheme incorporates low-carbon design, and biodiversity enhancements, helping to create a more attractive, sustainable and future-ready employment area for the town.

It includes:

• Flexible workspace units
• Research and innovation space
• Meeting and collaboration rooms
• Shared social and breakout areas

A global accreditation held by some of the world’s biggest businesses and organisations has been awarded to the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH). 

Cleator Moor-based iSH has become the first organisation in Cumbria to be recognised by the Skills Builder Partnership, after being awarded a Silver Skills Builder Excellence Mark for its work with 16 to 18-year-olds. 

iSH promotes, connects and drives opportunity for Cumbria’s supply chain through its industrial clusters, whilst supporting economic growth by expanding the region’s technical capability through its Skills Programmes. 

iSH Skills Lead, Hannah Pears, said: “Achieving the Silver Excellence Mark positions our skills programme alongside those of major national employers. We’re a small company but we’re very focused on delivering for West Cumbria. 

“Skills Builder looks at essential skill development in individuals. We’ve used that framework to develop and deliver a programme connecting education with real-world opportunity, which has industry challenges at its core.  

“It responds directly to local skills shortages while embracing the opportunities that emerging technologies like robotics and digital provide.” 

Cath Dutton, Strategic Careers Lead with economic development body Enterprising Cumbria, added: “In Cumbria, we know that many employers face challenges in finding young people who feel ready for the workplace, not because of a lack of potential but because they haven’t had consistent opportunities to build their essential skills and confidence.  

“iSH has responded to that challenge in a practical way. Being the first in the county to hold this mark is something to be proud of.” 

Skills Builder is a global framework that helps people develop life skills for success in business and beyond.  

It has been developed with hundreds of international organisations in sectors including business and education. It focuses on skills such as listening, problem solving, creativity and teamwork. 

Other organisations to have been awarded accreditation include Amazon, IBM and Lloyds Banking Group. 

Hannah said: “We want young people in West Cumbria to get good jobs in future facing industries. The clusters we are developing at iSH will offer fast moving technical careers. To do that, we have to build their skill set beyond technical ability. To do well in a job interview you have to be able to communicate well.” 

These are among the skills iSH focused on in its work with 470 young people in local schools and colleges in the last academic year.  

Projects included the Robotics School Sprint Challenge. This six-week competition, with the Robotics and AI Collaboration (RAICo), saw students from three colleges build and program robots to collect and transport mock nuclear waste barrels.  

Digital Cumbria work experience weeks give learners direct exposure to multiple digital organisations and roles. iSH also provides targeted support for underrepresented groups, including care leavers entering apprenticeships, through mentoring and tailored guidance to build confidence and remove barriers. 

Participants’ essential skills are assessed before and after iSH’s Skills Outreach programmes. After the Robotics School Sprint Challenge, 92 per cent of students recorded overall improvement. 

Led by the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH), Digital Cumbria was established to strengthen the local digital network for businesses, showcase Cumbria as an emerging digital region with growing capability and ambition, support digital skills and create accessible pathways into digital careers. In just 12 months, the cluster has expanded to include 17 companies, bringing together a mix of SMEs and global firms with a local presence, all working collaboratively to strengthen Cumbria’s digital economy.

Over the past year, the cluster has delivered a successful programme to its members that has already made a measurable impact. Highlights include improved digital access and skills building opportunities with a partnership anchored at LEVELS. Collaborations between the facility with Barclays Eagle Labs, Digital Unite, BT and Atos have created new opportunities for young people to engage with digital technology and skills development. From gamification courses to digital repair workshops a new offering has been brought to the region through working together.

Ian Irving from LEVELS said this approach had helped create a more inclusive delivery model for the region.

“The Digital Cumbria connection opened the door to deliver Barclays Eagle Labs and Capgemini’s Digital Unite programmes from LEVELS, offering space, equipment and crew at no cost to partners,” he said. “It allowed us to create a genuinely inclusive community delivery model.”

Talent and innovation development has also been a major focus, with digital sprints hosted at Sellafield LTD Centre of Excellence helping participants gain hands-on experience tackling real-world challenges for a complex nuclear site. The six-week sprint gave participants exposure to live systems, operations and cross-discipline teams, helping to improve confidence, technical capability and readiness for digital careers.

The cluster has also strengthened collaboration across the region, with organisations forming new relationships, awareness of each others capability and the ability to refer to one another thus helping businesses work together more effectively. SMEs are increasingly sharing expertise and opportunities, creating what members describe as a more connected and responsive ecosystem.

Richard Holmes from ITI Group highlighted the value of collaboration within the network.

“We can introduce others rather than say ‘sorry we don’t do that’, and that helps us be seen as a trusted advisor,” he said.

Looking ahead, Digital Cumbria is preparing for an even more ambitious second year. Plans are already underway for the launch of a SME Tech Accelerator programme later this year, alongside a hackathon set to be hosted at LEVELS in early 2027. Further showcase events, collaboration opportunities and innovation activity are also planned as the cluster continues to champion Cumbria’s growing digital landscape.

As the network moves into its second year, iSH say the focus remains firmly on creating opportunity, strengthening regional capability and ensuring Cumbria is recognised nationally as a place where digital innovation can thrive.

HUNDREDS of delegates gathered for a hotly anticipated event which saw SMEs meet with industry leaders to discuss how a £4.6 billion programme of work will be delivered over the next 15 years.  

The DNWP (Decommissioning Nuclear Waste Partnership) Supply Chain Engagement event saw dozens of SMEs meet with DNWP partners, Sellafield leaders, and the wider supply chain.  

The full-day event at Energus, Lillyhall, gave suppliers early visibility of upcoming opportunities in the decommissioning process. They had direct access to buyers, project teams and decision-makers, and were given a clear understanding of how work will flow.  

The event was organised by Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) in collaboration with the BECBC Nuclear Sector Group.  

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “I’m really pleased with how the day went. We worked with Sellafield and the DNWP partner companies to produce a really intensive programme to engage our local supply chain. 

“The DNWP opportunities are significant, and through the various seminars, engagement activities and networking opportunities, SMEs are now better equipped to capitalise on them. 

 “The SMEs I spoke to made some strong connections, and felt they had been given direct access to the right people and a clearer understanding of what’s required to put themselves in the best possible position to deliver. iSH acts as a conduit to the supply chain – linking companies with challenges to those that can provide solutions.” 

Sellafield and DNWP partners set out what will be required, and how the supply chain can position for upcoming work by promoting their products, capabilities and services.  

Decommissioning work will include two legacy nuclear storage ponds that retain significant radiological materials and hazards, as well as nuclear fuel handling facilities and the UK’s oldest nuclear reactor complexes.  

Ashley Cowan, Head of Decommissioning at Sellafield Ltd, told delegates that not all the problems inherent in the decommissioning process have solutions at this stage, saying: “This is an opportunity to shape the solutions. You are critical to Sellafield’s success.”  

Engineering and technology company Amentum is one of Sellafield’s “Tier Two” organisations, which are managing various parts of the decommissioning process. 

Amentum Operations Director Heather Moore said: “This has been a really important event for us. We’ve seen some really good presentations from the SMEs. Today has given us the opportunity to meet the supply chain that’s going to be helping us deliver for the next 15 years.”  

Simon Martin, Head of DDP & DNWP at Sellafield, said: “This supply chain event has given our Tier Two suppliers a chance to speak directly to SMEs.  

“It has brought people together as a community to understand the direction of travel, the size of the opportunity that’s out there, and the resource demand that we’re going to need over the coming years.” 

More than 40 suppliers had stands at the event, which attracted more than 300 delegates and also included SME Spotlight Sessions. These 10-minute presentation slots saw SMEs showcasing their capabilities directly to DNWP partners, buyers and project teams. 

Plans for a multimillion-pound industrial hub, located at the heart of the Leconfield Estate in Cleator Moor, have been submitted for planning approval.

Cumberland Council and the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) is proposing the iSH Hub – a new, flexible innovation building designed to support start‑up and early‑stage businesses focused upon advanced manufacturing and products, robotics and AI.

It forms part of the Cleator Moor Town Deal and is also supported by Sellafield Ltd and NDA.

Cleator Moor Town Deal Chair, Bob Metcalfe, said: “This is great news for the redevelopment plans for Cleator Moor. It’s another important milestone and will drive forward this exciting site. It will provide lasting benefits for residents and the local economy.”

The development of the site forms part of the wider regeneration programme being delivered across West Cumbria by iSH focused upon delivering economic growth opportunities around robotics, manufacturing and digital.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “Submitting the planning application for the iSH hub marks a significant milestone for us. The hub will create a collaborative environment where industry, academia and innovators can come together to solve real-world challenges, while driving long-term economic growth and high-quality jobs in the region.”

The hub will provide high‑quality workspaces, shared facilities and collaborative areas, helping new businesses to grow locally and strengthen West Cumbria’s skills base.

Tracey West, Head of Social Impact at Sellafield Ltd, added: “It’s great to see the iSH hub getting to this advanced stage.

“Sellafield Ltd and NDA contributed over £10m to the project which helped leverage significant investment from Government.

“This reflects our commitment to economic regeneration and supporting the development of local towns.”

The development will act as a focal point for regeneration, working alongside existing and new businesses on the estate. The scheme incorporates low‑carbon design, and biodiversity enhancements, helping to create a more attractive, sustainable and future‑ready employment area for the town.

It includes:

• Flexible workspace units
• Research and innovation space
• Meeting and collaboration rooms
• Shared social and breakout areas

Cumbrian-based organisations, the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) and the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Collaboration (RAICo) are together running their annual Robotics School Sprint challenge, which is launching this week.

Teams from West Coast Sixth Form Centre, Energy Coast UTC, and Lakes College West Cumbria will spend the next five weeks designing, building and programming small robots capable of tackling a mock version of a real-world nuclear challenge, safely moving high-hazard waste into a designated storage area. Each school will be supported by industry professionals volunteering their time and expertise.

Students studying A Levels and T Levels across a wide range of subjects will take part in weekly sprint sessions. These hands-on workshops provide practical experience in robotics, programming, and engineering, with direct support from professionals working in the nuclear sector, complementing their studies. They will then have to demonstrate their solution in front of experienced robotics engineers at RAICo1 in Whitehaven – the first in a series of robotics and AI collaboration facilities planned across the UK.

Now in its third year, the challenge is designed to give students meaningful, real-world experience by applying their learning to industry-inspired problems. It also provides a valuable opportunity to engage directly with professionals in robotics, AI, and nuclear engineering, offering insight into career pathways as well as developing their soft skills – including teamwork, presentation, and engaging with senior professionals.

The initiative has been so successful that it has been officially recognised by Skills Builder Partnership as achieving Impact Level 4, the highest possible accreditation. This recognition highlights the programme’s exceptional quality in developing essential skills, demonstrating measurable impact, and embedding best practice in education and industry engagement.

Businesses pushing the boundaries of innovation in Cumbria take centre stage in a new podcast series produced by a champion of the county’s supply chain. 

The first four episodes of iSH Presents are now live – and each gives a unique insight into companies and organisations tackling complex global challenges head on. 

Created by the Industrial Solutions Hub, the series is available on all major streaming platforms – with guests so far including industry big hitters from Sellafield Ltd, Createc and CORE Nuclear Solutions. 

iSH Programme Director, Miranda Kirschel, who hosts the majority of the episodes, said: “Our supply chain is filled with businesses achieving extraordinary things and hearing their stories first‑hand has been interesting and impressive in equal measure. 

“The pace of growth, the level of innovation and the willingness to push beyond traditional boundaries all reinforce what a powerful business ecosystem we have here in Cumbria. 

“iSH Presents captures that energy and gives these organisations a platform to shout about it. It has been a pleasure to shine a light on their achievements.” 

The opening run of episodes features conversations with some of the region’s technical leaders. 

Episode one explores how innovation is helping Sellafield deliver its internationally significant mission, with Managing Director of iSH, Gary McKeating, joined by Gareth Frazer, Head of Manufacturing and Engineering Solutions at Sellafield Ltd. 

The second episode focuses on the pioneering approach taken by Craig Branney and the team within Sellafield’s Engineering Centre of Excellence, whilst the third episode to go live spotlights John McGibbon, who has overseen remarkable growth and transformation within CORE Nuclear Solutions – from a four‑person operation to a 64‑strong team at the forefront of specialist engineering. 

In the most recent episode, Will Newsom, CEO of Createc, takes the guest slot and discusses how the business works across the sectors of critical infrastructure, defence and nuclear – to name just a few – as it delivers technology that makes a tangible difference to the world. 

Listeners can expect more content in the coming weeks, including an episode with Dr Kirsty Hewitson of RAICo (Robotics and AI Collaboration), alongside further conversations with leaders from across Cumbria’s expanding industrial and technological ecosystem. 

iSH Presents is available on all major podcast platforms, with new episodes released every two weeks as part of a wider programme showcasing Cumbria’s growing role in shaping the UK’s industrial future. 

iSH’s Digital Cumbria cluster recently delivered a collaborative showcase event with LEVELS, bringing together organisations and digital leaders from across the region for an immersive day of learning, collaboration and hands-on innovation.

Hosted at LEVELS in Whitehaven, attendees experienced the centre’s state-of-the-art facilities first-hand, from high-intensity VR racing to free-roam simulations and interactive digital learning environments.

The event demonstrated how immersive technologies are being used not just for engagement, but to enhance skills development and strengthen future-focused digital capability across Cumbria.

LEVELS is a cutting-edge £4.1 million Digital & Gaming Hub created through the transformation of the landmark former Whittles Building in the heart of Whitehaven.

Acquired by BEC in 2021, the historic Grade II listed building has been carefully restored – preserving its iconic Italianate façade and interiors – and reopened in January 2026 as a modern hub for the region’s creative and digital generation.

Spanning three floors, the facility features esports and VR zones, recording studios, a fully immersive education and learning suite, and a café space designed to encourage collaboration and community engagement.

Through strategic partnerships with VR Gateway, Sellafield Ltd, BT, ATOS and others, LEVELS is more than a physical space. It is designed to unlock new pathways into digital skills, inspire career ambitions and deliver long-term social impact across West Cumbria.

Beyond the technology itself, the day provided valuable opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing. The programme concluded with the Digital Cumbria Member Meeting, where partners reviewed progress on a county-wide initiative designed to build digital skills and support long-term workforce development.

Hannah Pears, Skills Lead at iSH and Director of LEVELS, said: “LEVELS is about far more than just technology it is creating real opportunities to inspire, upskill and show the next generation that a future in a digital career is within their grasp.

“Digital skills will be critical to Cumbria’s economy for the foreseeable future and by giving people hands-on access to immersive technology and industry-relevant training, we are helping ensure that local talent is ready for those opportunities.”

The event highlighted the strength of partnership across the region, with thanks extended to Gemma Leadbetter at BEC, Ian Irving from VR Gateway and the LEVELS Whitehaven team for hosting and to OneAIM JV for sponsoring the business networking lunch.

A strong example of collaboration in action, the event reinforced a shared commitment to strengthening Cumbria’s digital landscape and creating new opportunities for innovation and sustainable growth.

A Japanese government delegation toured key nuclear, engineering and technology sites in Cumbria as part of a fact-finding mission linked to the continued clean-up at Fukishima Daiichi.

Representatives from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) visited the Sellafield site and spent time with Sellafield Ltd before embarking on a series of supply chain visits organised by the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH).

During the visit, the delegation met with partners including the Sellafield Engineering Centre of Excellence, Cumberland Council to discuss regeneration, and the Resolve Engineered Solutions Consortium. Resolve is made up of four companies – Forth, React Engineering, Core Nuclear Solutions and COMS.

The programme of events was designed to showcase Cumbria’s technical capabilities, with a focus on advancements in nuclear decommissioning, regeneration and supply-chain collaboration.

KAGA Yoshihiro, Director, Nuclear Accident Response Office at METI, said: “We are working to make progress in decommissioning the entire Fukushima Daiichi site, but at the same time we are also focused on regeneration, reconstructing the area after the extensive damage caused by the accident. Our goal is to ensure that reconstruction and decommissioning progress hand-in-hand and what you are doing here aligns closely with that approach.

“That is why we came: to observe your work, understand your methods and take away insights that we can apply or adapt for our own activities back in Japan. That is the purpose of this visit.

“So far, we have learned a great deal. What has impressed us is how you have brought together both human and financial resources to support this area. You have launched significant initiatives, attracted a range of companies, both large and small, and communicated your vision very effectively.”

The programme also included visits to Createc and RAICo1, a collaboration involving UKAEA and other nuclear organisations, alongside a dinner with local nuclear industry stakeholders.

The METI delegates were particularly interested in the Resolve Consortium as a unique example of SME collaboration to bid for and deliver contracts.

Miranda Kirschel, Programme Director at iSH, said: “We were delighted the delegation were able to spend some time with us and see the capability we discussed with them when we were out in Japan last year.

“Sellafield and its supply chain have world-leading expertise and the companies based here have a great deal to offer our Japanese counterparts as they continue the clean-up of the Fukushima Daiichi site. It has been a fantastic opportunity to grow our relationship with them.

“Through iSH, we have been able to demonstrate how the creation of our three industrial clusters – robotics, manufacturing and digital – will not only support nuclear decommissioning activity, but also ensure our communities have the right skills to access the next generation of jobs. Many of these roles are very different from traditional nuclear decommissioning positions and it’s vital we prepare for that change now.”

The delegation also heard about investment being delivered through the Cleator Moor Town Deal, including plans for the iSH Enterprise Campus, which will provide new facilities to support innovation, skills development and business growth in West Cumbria.

Craig Branney, who hosted the delegation at the Sellafield Engineering Centre of Excellence, said: “It was a real privilege to welcome our colleagues from Japan to the Sellafield Engineering Centre of Excellence and to share how we are approaching the challenges of large-scale nuclear decommissioning.

“At Sellafield, we are committed not only to making safe, timely progress in decommissioning the site, but also to doing so in a way that strengthens the local economy and builds long-term capability. A key part of that is working much more closely with our supply chain — investing in skills, innovation and collaboration, and creating an environment where organisations of all sizes can contribute and thrive.

“Visits like this are incredibly valuable. They allow us to exchange ideas, learn from international experience and test our own thinking, while also demonstrating how partnership, shared purpose and sustained investment can support both decommissioning and wider regeneration.”

This visit underlines Cumbria’s reputation as a global centre of excellence for nuclear decommissioning, innovation and skills development.

By fostering strong international partnerships and investing in cutting-edge technology and talent, the region is not only supporting safe and effective clean-up operations but also building a sustainable economic future for its communities.

As challenges in nuclear decommissioning evolve worldwide, Cumbria’s collaborative approach continues to offer valuable insights and solutions that can be shared across borders.

Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) recently showcased Cumbria’s robotics, manufacturing and digital capabilities at the World Nuclear Exhibition (WNE) in Paris.

iSH has created industrial clusters in Robotics, Manufacturing and Digital to foster collaboration and further develop the business ecosystem in Cumbria by promoting the region’s businesses on the world stage.

The leading international industry event – which took place earlier this month at the Parc des Expositions in Paris – hosted a comprehensive network of worldwide suppliers and providers within the nuclear sector.

While showcasing the innovation from Cumbria’s business community, iSH also represented its Cumbria Robotics Cluster (CRC) members on the global stage with Miranda Kirschel, Hannah Pears and Lynn Huddart leading the iSH delegation.

The cluster positions Cumbria as a global centre of excellence in robotics and delivers both social and economic benefits to the region through collaboration, knowledge-sharing and growth.

Miranda Kirschel, iSH Programme Director, said: “The Cumbria Robotics cluster brings together a range of pioneering organisations who are committed to advancing robotics for nuclear decommissioning and other challenging environments.

“The team were delighted to attend such a well-established international event and show how the Cumbria Robotics Cluster brings together industry, academia and the supply chain to drive innovation and growth in the region’s economy.”

The iSH team hosted a stand within the exhibition’s UK Pavilion, where they championed the region’s ability to collaborate on innovative projects.

Miranda added: “The exhibition was a great opportunity for us to truly showcase Cumbria’s capability within the nuclear sector. There were several networking opportunities, which enabled us to establish both international and regional connections with key stakeholders, organisations and businesses.

“It was also great to see exhibition stands from other Cumbrian businesses, which proved just how strong the region’s presence is within robotics, manufacturing and digital technologies on the global stage.”

More than 330 speakers took to the stage at the exhibition, including President of the WNE, Sylvie Bermann; Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi; and the Chairman of the Strategic Committee for the French Nuclear Sector (CSFN), the French Nuclear Energy Industry Organization (GIFEN), and President of Nuclear Europe, Xavier Ursat.

BUSINESSES will be given the opportunity to find out they can support the nuclear decommissioning sector at an event being held in Cumbria.

The Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) has organised a conference to showcase Cumbria’s world-leading technical expertise and capability.

Companies who attend iSH DECOM CONNECT, supported by Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster (BECBC), will hear from leaders of organisations looking for solutions to industry challenges.

Tailored for supply chain companies in the nuclear decommissioning sector, the conference will hear from leaders across the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) estate’s operating companies, including Sellafield Ltd.

Attendees will be presented with opportunity pipelines and real live challenges relevant to iSH clusters in Manufacturing, Robotics, Advanced Technologies and Digital.

Among those presenting will be Euan Hutton, CEO, Sellafield Ltd; Seth Kybird, CEO, Nuclear Waste Services; and Gareth Frazer, Head of MPO, Sellafield Ltd.

There will be market engagement opportunities for supply chain companies relating to MSSS 3m3 Box Tender presented by Cath Murphy, Category Manager, Sellafield Ltd and for Decommissioning Nuclear Waste Partnership (DNWP) presented by Simon Martin, Head of DDP & DNWP at Sellafield Ltd.

Supply chain companies involved in collaborations will also have the chance to showcase their capabilities and success stories.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH said: “iSH is delighted to bring together leaders of organisations in the nuclear decommissioning sector who have industry challenges with businesses who have the expertise and capability to help solve them.

“Collaboration like this to make positive change happen through innovative and impactful action is a key pillar of our purpose.

“If, by showcasing the tech capability which already exists and which is developing all the time, we can help industry deliver its mission then that’s a great result for everyone.

“We thank representatives from the NDA and other organisations for supporting this approach and sharing their challenges with supply chain companies.

“I look forward to seeing the tangible results across industry which come out of this conference.”

iSH DECOM CONNECT takes place at Energus, Lillyhall, Workington, Cumbria, on November 27,  2025, 8:30am-4pm, followed by a networking reception from 4pm-6pm. To register for the event please visit: iSH DECOM Connect Book your ticket

Ambitious businesses looking for a base in the thriving West Cumbria economy are invited to register their interest in the first two units at iSH’s state-of-the-art enterprise campus.

iSH Enterprise Campus in Cleator Moor has announced its first two units are now available for expressions of interest. The units are due to be available from Spring 2027.

The campus will serve as a dynamic ecosystem, bringing together both emerging and established enterprises, from large corporations to SMEs and micro businesses, operating across manufacturing and advanced technology sectors.

It will provide strategic support to the nuclear industry while also fostering growth across other critical regional sectors.

The development of the site forms part of the wider regeneration programme being delivered across West Cumbria by iSH focused upon delivering economic growth opportunities around robotics, AI and advanced engineering and manufacturing.

The site has been designed with sustainability and long-term growth in mind. Each unit will benefit from integrated green energy infrastructure, including solar power and heat pumps and an EPC ‘A’ rating. EV charging points and on-site parking are also included to support operational efficiency and accessibility. The Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) Enterprise Campus is an £50m economic regeneration initiative led by Cumberland Council with funding and support from the

Government’s Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, through Town Deal and Levelling Up programmes, and other strategic partners including the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, Sellafield Ltd and Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership.

The first two units available on the site are Unit 9 which comprises 28,137 sq ft, currently configured as four units of approximately 7,034 sq ft each, and Unit 12 offers 35,338 sq ft, arranged as five units of 7,068 sq ft each.

These flexible, high-specification spaces are designed to support a wide range of industrial, engineering and specialist technical operations.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “We are delighted to announce that these first units on the site are now released and available to businesses for their expressions of interest.

“It’s the first step in this development which will bring together businesses of all shapes and sizes, all with an ambition to deliver innovations which will benefit the local, regional and national economy.

“As the site develops it will also make a big positive socio-economic impact across our communities.”

Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said: “This is an exciting project that will harness a wide range of benefits and opportunities for the area going forward.

“I am very proud that the project has reached the stage where expressions of interest are being sought for the first industrial units on the site.” Organisations interested in securing space at the iSH Enterprise Campus are encouraged to register their interest at the earliest opportunity. Expressions of interest can be submitted via the online form on iSH’s website (www.ishco.co.uk) or by email to: info@ishco.co.uk For further information, please contact: • Miranda Kirschel: Miranda.Kirschel@ishco.co.uk • Graham Wilson: Graham.Wilson@ishco.co.uk • Barbara Vernon: Barbara.Vernon@Cumberland.gov.uk Full details available at: https://ishco.co.uk/prime-industrial-units-to-let

Congratulations to Lynn Huddart our Assistant Project Officer on achieving a great result in passing her APM Project Management Qualification, as part of her Project Management Degree Apprenticeship.

Investing in, and developing, our people at iSH, so they are able to fulfil their professional and personal ambitions and reach their full potential is key to our work.

As Lynn prepares to mark three years with iSH this November it’s fantastic to see how she has embraced this opportunity through her studies at University of Cumbria.

Lynn said: “I am over the moon that I have passed – relieved and a bit in shock! I have learned that revision really does pay off!

“I am delighted as I can concentrate now on the next two years of the course and the degree side of things when I go back to uni on September 17.”

Lynn added: “The course has really helped me in my day-to-day role at iSH.

“I have been very lucky because I have had access to some amazing projects and people at iSH which has really helped me with my course.

“I couldn’t have achieved what I have so far without the support of the iSH team.

“They are all skilled individuals, with so much knowledge and experience.

“It’s a really exciting time to be working at iSH as wecontinue to shape the future of manufacturing and robotics in West Cumbria, and drive regional regeneration through our clusters. It’s great to be part of such an important organisation.”

Our MD Gary McKeating said: “We are all very proud of Lynn. We are lucky to have her as a key part of our team.

“When our team grasp opportunities to grow and develop like this, it means we can pass on their learnings and insight as we support our cluster members and collaborators, which ultimately benefits our community”

iSH is recruiting for a Project Lead to join our team.

If you are excited at the opportunity to help shape the future of manufacturing and robotics in West Cumbria we’d love to hear from you.

iSH is driving regional regeneration by building thriving clusters in manufacturing and robotics. We’re looking for a proactive, organised, and passionate Project Lead to spearhead initiatives that deliver real socio-economic impact for the region.

Project Lead Role Profile

Role purpose

The Project Lead is responsible for helping define and then deliver, the projects that support Industrial Solutions Hub’s (iSH) vision and mission of regional regeneration activities. The role will support our project and programme approach from the current initial set-up through to optimisation, and instill a project management discipline into our activities to achieve our medium and long-term goals of bringing positive sustainable socio-economic outcomes to the region and delivering against our defined Programme Outcomes. Principle responsibilities

• Developing detailed project plans, including scope, goals, deliverables, resource allocation, timelines, and budgets.

• Supporting the delivery of iSH cluster projects where they relate to manufacturing and robotics.

• Managing the day to day project lifecycles including scope, cost, risk identification and mitigation, schedule and change management.

• Developing the project management frameworks appropriate to the size and scale of our organisation, balancing pace and agility with appropriate governance and control.

• Assisting in driving the projects towards successful completion and using creative problem solving to overcome hurdles, blockers and risks.

• Managing the project budget, monitoring project costs, tracking KPIs, and reporting on financial status, making adjustments as necessary to ensure project success.

• Documenting project activities, including plans, designs, reports, and updates.

• Communicating updates regularly with team and stakeholders on project progress, challenges, and changes in scope as necessary.

• Organising and coordinating meetings and events and supporting the cluster programme and supply chain development programme delivery.

• Collaborating with senior managers and stakeholders to ensure all aspects of projects are aligned and progressing smoothly.

Skills and Experience

Education: The postholder must either be able to demonstrate that they have education qualifications to degree level, a comprehensive understanding of project management or business management qualifications. Engineering or a related field is preferred.

Experience: Engineering knowledge or systems thinking experience beneficial. 5+ years experience in project management or a related role is beneficial.

Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential for effective collaboration with team members and stakeholders.

Organisational Skills: Strong organisational abilities to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines. Enjoys proactively driving projects through the project lifecycle with enthusiasm and dynamism and a willingness to be involved in the hands on delivery of all projects.

Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with project management software and Power BI advantageous.

Working relationships

· Reporting to the Programme Director, this is a role which will interact with a range of people within and outside the organisation including, but not limited to, colleagues, stakeholders, funders, suppliers, educations institutions

Decision making authority

· The role is responsible for making recommendations about the project management tools, systems and approach used in managing our projects.

· The role is responsible for ensuring that all iSH projects are delivered to time, cost and quality.

Working arrangements

· Salary £45,000-£50,000 plus Pension Contribution

· Full-time (37.5 hours per week) based at Cleator Moor, West Cumbria

· 25 days holiday plus public holidays

· Must have a right to live and work in the UK.

Please apply by providing your CV and a supporting statement of no more than two A4 pages, demonstrating your suitability for the role based on the responsibilities and criteria outlined above.

🔹Closing Date for applications: Monday 8th September 2025, 5pm
🔹Interviews: Week commencing 22nd September 2025
🔹Applications should be submitted to jobs@ishco.co.uk    .

Interested candidates may want to contact miranda.kirschel@ishco.co.uk for informal discussions before submitting their application.

The Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) has welcomed an experienced leader in the nuclear sector to its board of directors.

Gareth Frazer, Head of the Manufactured Products Organisation (MPO) at Sellafield Ltd, brings with him a wealth of experience in advanced manufacturing, supply chain innovation and strategic operations.

Gareth joins as the representative of Sellafield Ltd, a major funder of iSH.

Born and raised in West Cumbria, Gareth has a deep-rooted commitment to making a positive impact on the local community. He began his career at Sellafield in 1995 as mechanical apprentice and went on to complete a BEng in Mechanical Engineering at Teesside University.

Throughout his career, Gareth has focused on transforming how the nuclear industry approaches equipment design and manufacture, with a strong emphasis on delivering value and innovation through the supply chain.

Today, he leads a growing organisation at Sellafield that includes the Manufactured Products Organisation, internal manufacturing capabilities, the Centre of Excellence at Leconfield and a site-wide spares and obsolescence service.

Gareth said: “I’m pleased to join the board at an exciting time for iSH and to help build on the momentum that has been so successfully established.

“I’m passionate about making sure Cumbria and UK manufacturing benefit from the work we have at Sellafield as well as joining up the rest of the nuclear industry to maximise the opportunities for the local and national supply chain.

“iSH is doing vital work to strengthen Cumbria’s innovation ecosystem, and I look forward to contributing to its mission to create opportunities for local and national manufacturing and to attract inward investment where it adds to the economic vibrancy of our area.”

Darren Crossley, Director of Place, Sustainable Growth and Transport at Cumberland Council and iSH Chair, said: “Our thanks go to previous board member Gary Dixon for his contribution since he joined in 2024.

“We now welcome Gareth at a time when iSH is expanding its impact across the region, and where his experience in advanced manufacturing and commitment to innovation and economic growth align perfectly with our mission.”

ENDS

SCHOOL children from across West Cumbria have battled for a place in the FIRST® LEGO® League National competition in May.

A total of 61 children from six schools took part in the annual international contest at Lakes College, in Workington on Tuesday, March 25 – putting the robots they have been designing since October to the test in a series of real-world challenges on the theme of ‘submerged’.

A team from Seascale Primary School emerged as this year’s victors and will now go through to the FIRST® LEGO® League Nationals in Harrogate in May.

The event, organised by the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) and The React Foundation, both based in Cleator Moor, and supported by STEM ambassadors from both Sellafield Ltd, REACT Engineering and Amentum, promotes skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through hands on learning and problem solving.

Hannah Pears, Skills Lead at ISH, said: “The challenges this year, as always, were complex and required each team to think creatively about the design of their robots so they were capable of performing the series of precise tasks required.

“Seeing the teams working so well together to deploy their robots to carry out intricate tasks has been nothing short of amazing, and our congratulations go to everyone who has taken part.

“Only one team could secure a place at Nationals however and we wish the West Cumbria Finals winners; Seascale Primary School, the very best of luck as they go head-to-head with teams from across the country.”

The theme of the challenges this year was ‘Submerged’ with each team designing an autonomous LEGO® robot capable of carrying out tasks linked to marine exploration and the oceanic environment.

Using engineering and advanced programming skills alongside strong teamwork, communication and collaboration, the robots completed their missions on a themed playing field within a strict time limit.

Eve West, Higher Level Teaching Assistant at Seascale Primary School, said: “All of the pupils are very excited that they’ve won. They have worked so hard and have become a real team in the last few weeks.”

Maddie Sim, a member of Seascale Primary School’s winning team, said: “I feel really impressed with my team because we worked together to get this accomplished. Eventually, all that hard work paid off.”

The event in West Cumbria follows the south Cumbria finals held at Dowdales School in Barrow on March 18, which saw a team from George Romney Junior School in Dalton secure their place at the national event.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “This is a fun competition which aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire a pipeline of talent for robotics and advanced technology businesses here in West Cumbria, of which we have many.

“It’s wonderful to see the children excel at something which helps them to develop such valuable skills for the future.”

ENDS

WOMEN in Cumbria are at the cutting edge of one of the most advanced technology sectors in the world – while role modelling career pathways for the next generation.

The Cumbria Robotics Cluster, powered by the Industrial Solutions Hub, based in Cleator Moor, is a group of businesses working in the field of robotics with a particular interest in the development of solutions for the nuclear industry and other harsh environments.

Leading figures in the industry have spoken about what drives their passion for robotics to mark International Women’s Day 2025 – a global event to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, which this year takes place on Saturday, March 8.

Jill Stewart, Research Professor in Systems Modelling and Optimisation at the University of Cumbria, which is a member of the Cumbria Robotics Cluster, became interested in robotics while reading for an undergraduate degree in mechatronics which integrates mechanical, electrical, electronic and computer engineering.

“I create computer representations of complex systems to study their behaviour and interactions and ultimately find the best solution to a problem,” she said.

“My undergraduate degree sparked a life-long interest in how machines can be designed to do useful things. I’m really inspired by recent developments in AI that have opened a new world of possibilities for robots to take on difficult and dangerous jobs so that people can do interesting and important work.”

Amanda Smith is the UAV Programme Lead at Sellafield Ltd, another Cumbria Robotics Cluster member. She said robotics is an exciting sector to work in.

“I have worked at Sellafield for 26 years and have developed skills in various areas including Radiometrics, E&I Craftsperson and Work Management. The UAV role was a wildcard career move for me knowing nothing about drones, but one I’m pleased I took the chance on.

“I’ve developed the UAV capability over the last six years and am proud to deliver benefits from using robotics both on the Sellafield site and across the NDA estate.

“It’s great to see the use of new technologies to keep people away from harm and to overcome difficult engineering challenges, some of which have been long standing issues. It’s exciting to see what we can do with robotics today and what is to come from the continually evolving options.”

Kayleigh Daniels, Head of Development at React Engineering – specialists in nuclear decommissioning based in Cleator Moor, said: “What really attracted me to the sector was the complexity and unique nature of the problems.

“Some of the challenges really are pushing beyond the forefront of current science and technology and the advancements in these areas create an evolving picture; making finding the best solutions exciting and ever-changing.

“I’m still a passionate pragmatist, however robotics and technology gives us smarter and safer ways to solve intractable problems.”

The Cumbria Robotics Cluster was launched by iSH last year to bring together organisations with a shared vision to collaborate and elevate Cumbria as a global centre of excellence in robotics engineering and problem solving.

iSH Programme Director Miranda Kirschel, who received an MBE for services to equal opportunities in the nuclear industry, said: “Cumbria’s capability in robotics – one of the most rapidly advancing sectors in the world, is renowned.

“Women are leading the way in key roles in a number of our cluster member companies; it’s fantastic to be able to show the next generation that robotics is a genuine career pathway for them and to inspire future advanced engineers.”

ENDS