UK Industrial Fusion Solutions launches first public consultation for the STEP Fusion prototype powerplant at West Burton.
Communities across North Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire are being invited to help shape the early planning stage of the UK’s ground-breaking STEP Fusion prototype powerplant.
From 14 January, UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS) will begin a localised public consultation, giving people the chance to learn about the emerging proposals and share their views. Events will take place in community venues within roughly 10 kilometres of the West Burton site, with additional activity in Bawtry to support wider transport discussions.
This early, informal consultation marks a significant moment for the STEP Fusion programme, which aims to deliver a first-of-its-kind fusion powerplant at the former West Burton A site, chosen for its strong infrastructure, long energy-generation history and well-established grid connections. Further formal stages of consultation will follow.
Paul Methven, CEO of UKIFS and Responsible Officer for STEP Fusion, said:
“This is a major milestone for STEP Fusion and for the communities who have supported us from day one. Local people in and around West Burton, Retford and Gainsborough have played a crucial role in bringing the Programme to the region. Over the past two years we’ve held extensive outreach events and listened closely to the community’s ambitions and concerns. This first formal consultation is your opportunity to help shape the proposals as they develop.”
Visitors to the consultation events and online portal will be able to explore early plans for the site including the potential layout of the fusion facility, transport strategies covering road, rail and river options, and the long-term economic benefits for the region.
The vision also includes a public transport interchange, river-handling facilities and areas for science-park-style innovation space that could support broader research and development activity in the future.
Paul Methven added:
“We are committed to designing a facility that fits sensitively with its surroundings. Our early plans protect green space, encourage biodiversity and make the most of opportunities for public and active travel. We value the area’s heritage and are working closely with organisations such as Historic England.”
Consultation runs from 14 January to 11 March 2026, our online portal will close at 11.59pm on the final day.
Residents, businesses, and community groups can provide feedback online, at an event, or by post.
How to take part:
Online: www.stepfusion.com/consultation
Email: communications.step@ukifs.uk
Post: FREEPOST STEP FUSION (no postage or further address needed)
Events:
Our in-person events give the opportunity for the community to meet the team and ask questions. Dates, times and venues are listed at www.stepfusion.com/consultation and here in summary for you:
Wednesday 14 January
10am to 3pm at Sturton Hall and Conference Centre
Thursday 15 January
3pm to 8pm at Roses Sports ground, Gainsborough
Friday 16 January
10am to 3pm at North and South Wheatley Village Hall
Saturday 17 January
11am to 4pm Bawtry Town Hall
Tuesday 20 January
11.30am to 4.30pm at Lea Village Hall
Wednesday 21 January
3pm pm to 8pm at South Leverton Memorial Institute
Thursday 22 January
3pm to 8pm at Hallcroft Community Hall, Retford
Wednesday 28 January
10am to 3pm at Misterton Methodist Hall
Thursday 29 January
10am to 3pm Sturton by Stow Village Hall, Lincoln
Friday 30 January
3pm to 8pm Gringley on the Hill Community Centre
Saturday 31 January
10am to 3pm Clarborough Village Hall
Monday 2 February
10am to 3pm at Laneham Memorial Hall
Tuesday 17 February
3pm to 8pm at Sturton Hall and Conference Centre
Copies of the documents can also be accessed at a range of public locations:
Bassetlaw District Council Offices at Queen’s Buildings, Worksop and The Square, Retford.
West Lindsey District Council Offices, Guildhall, Gainsborough
Notes to Editors:
– STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) aims to demonstrate net energy from fusion and lay the foundations for future commercial fusion plants.
– West Burton A is currently being demolished; the site’s energy-generation legacy and strong infrastructure links underpinned its selection.
– UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).
For further comments or interview requests please contact media.step@ukifs.uk
