Nuclear South West was proud to support the Great South West’s Westminster launch of A New Nuclear Future, a major prospectus setting out the region’s capability and readiness to help deliver the UK’s long‑term nuclear ambitions.
Held in the Palace of Westminster and attended by parliamentarians, policymakers, investors, regulators and industry leaders, the event showcased the strength, depth and maturity of the South West’s nuclear ecosystem. It also provided a platform for our Chair, Jay Bhart, who led the first panel session on securing the national ambition for new nuclear, a discussion well‑supported by several members of the NSW Board in the room.
A strong national message from DESNZ
The keynote address from Andrew Cooke, Deputy Director for Advanced Nuclear at DESNZ, set a clear tone. He highlighted the growing momentum behind nuclear, the importance of stable policy and regulatory reform, and the critical role of regional clusters like the Great South West in delivering clean, secure and sovereign energy for the UK.
Cooke described the current moment as a genuine opportunity to accelerate deployment, modernise delivery models and build a long‑term pipeline of projects, with regions like the South West central to that mission.
Panel Session 1 – Led by Nuclear South West
Chaired by Jay Bhart, the first panel brought together: Andrew Cockcroft, EDF – Stefan Cecchini, Turnbull Infrastructure – Matt Tudor, UCS College Group. The discussion explored the region’s unique strengths, from its multi‑generational nuclear workforce to its proven supply chain and the unparalleled experience gained through Hinkley Point C. Skills and social value were central themes, with a clear message that long‑term workforce development must begin now. The South West’s Technical Excellence Colleges were highlighted as a national model for collaborative curriculum design, employer engagement and social mobility.
Panel Session 2 – A new era of British nuclear energy
The second panel, chaired by Professor Dame Judith Petts DBE, brought together representatives from government, GBN, ONR, industry and the FE sector. Speakers discussed the renewed optimism across the nuclear landscape, the opportunities presented by SMRs and advanced nuclear technologies, and the importance of international collaboration and regulatory alignment. Government representatives encouraged the region to continue sharing both challenges and successes. Reinforcing the value of real‑world insight from clusters such as the South West.
Closing reflections from Karl Tucker
The event concluded with remarks from Karl Tucker, Chair of the Great South West, who reflected on the partnership’s journey and the region’s growing national profile. He highlighted the progress made in shifting perceptions of the South West, from a region often associated with “beaches and cream teas” to one recognised for its strategic importance in defence, energy and food security.
Karl emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, the strength of the region’s collective voice, and the opportunity ahead as the Great South West transitions into its new partnership model. His remarks underscored the shared ambition across industry, academia and government to ensure the region plays a leading role in the UK’s clean energy future.