Winfrith Technology Centre, Dorset
Background
English Partnerships acquired the Winfrith Technology Centre in Dorset from United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) in 2004 for £7.54m. The centre is one of the region’s most significant employment bases capable of supporting 4,000 jobs.
Located between Poole and Dorchester, the Winfrith Technology Centre covers an area of 50.80 ha (125 acres) and the site offers significant scope for further business expansion and start-up opportunities. The remaining 81 ha (200 acres) is owned and operated by UKAEA.
The acquisition is part of English Partnerships’ national strategy to increase and improve the use of security permission requiredsurplus public sector land and to support the government’s growth agenda for the South-West.
Current status
English Partnerships has been working and consulting with a range of local partners to examine the issues facing the area. A key objective is to bring forward sustainable development that minimises impact on the environment but at the same time creates communities where people will enjoy living and working.
Zog Brownfield Ventures (Winfrith) Limited have been appointed as developers to the site, and they along with English Partnerships will be working closely with Purbeck District Council on a range of options for the site.