The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority has launched a search for a developer to transform a former nuclear power plant in Dumfries & Galloway into a major green energy hub.
A masterplan for the Chapelcross power plant in the Scottish town of Annan reveals a vision to turn the 518-acre site into a multi-million-pound, net-zero-focused development providing hydrogen production storage, advanced manufacturing, and energy and enterprise campuses.
The NDA is now seeking a strategic developer that can bring expertise and private finance to help deliver the vision for the site.
Chief executive David Peattie said: “Our ultimate aim is to free up our land for reuse, delivering benefit to local communities, the environment and the wider economy – the green energy hub will enable us to deliver this at Chapelcross.
“The masterplan marks tangible progress in making the hub a reality and is a testament to the value of partnership working. Selecting a strategic developer will enable us to build on this further and leverage the benefits of public and private sector collaboration.”
The Chapelcross site is owned by the NDA and comprises the nuclear power station site, which is undergoing decommissioning, the wider nuclear-licensed site and unlicensed NDA landholding.
The focus of the development is the unlicensed landholding.
A total of 148 acres will be released as part of the masterplan, enabling phase one of the development project.
The plans are supported by investment of up to £15.3m from the UK and Scottish governments through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.
Strategic developer proposals must be submitted by 25 October, with the NDA expecting to make an appointment in early 2025.
Avison Young is advising on the project.
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