A multimillion-pound industrial hub, located at the heart of the Leconfield Estate, Cleator Moor has been approved.

At the Planning Committee on Wednesday, July 15, the go-ahead was given to the development.  

Cumberland Council and the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) put forward the application for the iSH Hub.

Leader of Cumberland Council, Councillor Mark Fryer, added: “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.”

A new, flexible innovation building designed to support start‑up and early‑stage businesses focused upon advanced manufacturing and products, robotics and AI.  

Forming part of the Cleator Moor Town Deal, it is also supported by Sellafield Ltd and NDA.

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.

Managing Director of iSH, Gary McKeating 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

The Cleator Moor Town deal brought four projects forward with the iSH hub part of the Enterprising Town.