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The Offshore Wind Growth Partnership (OWGP) has unveiled a new round of funding worth between £300,000 and £25 million per project, aimed at supporting key investment priorities outlined in the Industrial Growth Plan.
This latest programme is backed by the Offshore Wind Industry Council (OWIC) through its Industrial Growth Fund, which pools contributions from developer members across the sector.
“I am delighted to announce our first funding call under OWIC’s Industrial Growth Fund,” said Tim Pick, Chair of the OWGP and Commissioner of the Clean Power 2030 Advisory Commission.
“This marks a step change in the scale of funding OWGP is deploying as we deliver on the ambitions of the Industrial Growth Plan.”
Since its launch in 2019, OWGP—an initiative supported by both industry and government—has helped deliver more than 380 projects, enhancing the capacity and competitiveness of the UK offshore wind supply chain.
The Industrial Growth Fund represents a new and expanded phase of this work, designed to help businesses build or scale facilities that strengthen the UK’s domestic manufacturing base. Investment priorities include the production of turbine blades, cables, and foundations, alongside innovation in environmental services and operations and maintenance (O&M) technologies.
“Through this funding initiative, OWGP is enabling UK companies to make the strategic investments needed to grow home-grown supply chains, enhance resilience, create high-value jobs, and ensure the UK remains a global leader in offshore wind technology,” said Anil Sayhan, OWGP Programme Director.
Under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) Allocation Round 7 Clean Industry Bonus framework, participating generators can nominate OWGP to deliver part of their CIB minimum standard commitments. Supply chain projects that meet the CIB criteria—as well as those that do not—are eligible to apply for support.
“The launch of the first round of the Industrial Growth Fund is a landmark moment for the UK’s world-leading offshore wind sector,” added Jane Cooper, Deputy CEO of RenewableUK and OWGP Board Member.
“It will stimulate the creation of dynamic, innovative supply chains across the country—building on the hundreds of companies already thriving in this sector—and bring tangible benefits to communities through industrial regeneration and new opportunities.”
Many of us were moved by the story of Tom Boyd, a 28-year-old with severe autism who volunteered at Waitrose in Cheadle Hulme for four years — more than 600 hours of loyal service.
With the help of a support worker, Tom loved his role and the community it gave him. When his mother, Frances, asked if he might receive a few paid hours for his commitment, the response was devastating: instead of recognising his dedication, Waitrose ended his volunteer placement.
Thankfully, Asda stepped in, offering Tom two paid shifts each week with the support he needs. Their response showed what inclusion looks like when it’s backed by empathy and action.
Why this story matters:
Tom’s experience highlights a truth many organisations overlook: people with disabilities don’t seek sympathy — they seek opportunity. Paid work is about dignity, fairness, and belonging.
This case also exposes a broader issue — the gap between “volunteering” and real employment for neurodivergent individuals. When someone clearly contributes, we must ask: are we rewarding that effort fairly?
What businesses can learn?
Create clear paths from volunteering to paid work. Long-term unpaid roles can feel exploitative, even if well-intentioned.
Adapt roles to individual needs. Tom thrived with structured hours and a support worker — small adjustments, big results.
Communicate with compassion. Decisions made without empathy can undo years of good work at the local level.
Celebrate success stories. Asda’s response shows inclusion and business sense aren’t opposites.
A call to leaders:
Tom’s story is a mirror for every employer: inclusion is more than policy - it’s personal. Real inclusion means asking, “How can we help this person succeed here?”
Let’s make sure no one who gives their time, heart, and effort ever feels invisible again.
Sizewell C Nuclear Power Plant Secures Key Fuel Contracts to Strengthen UK Energy Security
George King, 13 October 2025
The team behind the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, set to be built near Leiston in Suffolk, has signed two landmark low-carbon fuel agreements, which project leaders are calling "a defining moment" for the UK's energy security.
Sizewell C has secured a six-year uranium supply contract with Urenco, along with a long-term fuel fabrication agreement with Framatome. Urenco will provide natural uranium, which will then be enriched at its facility in Chester. Following this, Framatome will convert the enriched uranium into fuel pellets, which are used to form fuel assemblies for the plant’s reactors.
These partnerships are expected to create and sustain thousands of jobs within the nuclear industry while reducing the plant’s dependence on imported fuel.
Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann, the joint managing directors of Sizewell C, expressed their excitement, stating: "These two contracts are pivotal moments for Sizewell C and for the future of energy security in the UK. The fuel for our reactors will be low-carbon and primarily sourced from Britain, produced by skilled local workers. This marks a new approach to infrastructure and places the UK’s energy security and nuclear supply chain on much stronger footing."
With an estimated cost of £38 billion, Sizewell C will provide electricity to up to six million homes for over 60 years, with operations expected to begin in the 2030s. The project is expected to directly create 10,000 jobs, as well as thousands more across the supply chain, including 1,500 apprenticeships.
Notably, around 1,000 of these jobs will be based at Urenco’s uranium enrichment site in Capenhurst, near Chester. Meanwhile, the partnership with Framatome will initially see fuel fabrication taking place at its factory in Romans, France, until a new UK-based facility is completed, further contributing to job creation.
Sizewell C has also emphasized that 90% of the project’s total construction value will be delivered to UK businesses, bolstering the nation's economy.
Lord Patrick Vallance, Minister for Science, Innovation, Research and Nuclear, praised the government’s support for Sizewell C as part of the “new golden age of nuclear.” He added: "These contracts not only reduce our reliance on imported fuel but also support 1,000 highly skilled jobs and bring vital investment into Cheshire. Our clean energy agenda is about enhancing energy security while building robust, homegrown supply chains to boost jobs and economic growth."
This move marks a significant step forward in strengthening the UK's energy infrastructure and ensuring long-term sustainability for the nation’s power needs.
Poppy Wilson Clover
Poppy Wilson Clover is our Business Administrator and the steady hand behind the scenes. With a love for structure and an eye for detail.
Outside of work, she’s a keen reader and a fan of nostalgic video games — the kind that came with chunky controllers and pixelated charm. At home, she’s kept on her toes by her two cats Fat Louis and Willow, who are very much in charge.
Plans for a major new solar farm, covering the equivalent of 86 football pitches, have been granted approval despite concerns from local residents and councillors.
Mid Suffolk District Council voted unanimously in favour of the development, which will see solar panels installed across a 120-acre site at Palgrave, near Diss in Norfolk. The project, proposed by renewable energy firm Aura Power, is expected to generate enough electricity to power around 12,000 homes annually.
While the move was welcomed by supporters of green energy, it sparked objections from some local residents and campaigners. Concerns were raised about the visual impact on the rural landscape, potential disruption to wildlife habitats, and the loss of productive agricultural land.
Farmer Stephen Rash, whose land will partly host the solar panels, addressed the council during the planning meeting. He defended the project, stating it would provide financial stability for his wider farming operations.
“This project is not a threat to food security—it is a safeguard,” he told councillors. “It will provide a safe, reliable income that allows us to invest in farming practices, modern equipment, and long-term sustainability.”
Supporters of the scheme also pointed to the environmental benefits of renewable energy, the financial contributions Aura Power has pledged to make to local projects, and the support it offers to landowners in difficult economic times.
However, Green Party cabinet member for environment, culture and wellbeing, Tim Weller, voiced his unease, saying the growing number of energy projects across the region was placing a heavy burden on rural communities.
“Every village in my parish is being affected,” he said. “People can be forgiven for feeling like they’re single-handedly powering up Britain—and it’s all just a bit too much. The area feels under siege from energy infrastructure.”
Aura Power has committed to contributing £12,000 annually to a community benefit fund for the life of the solar farm.
Construction on the site is expected to begin later this year and will take approximately eight months to complete.
Logistics Park Growth to Create 3,500 Jobs
A logistics park expansion in Great Blakenham, Ipswich, could generate 3,500 new jobs, according to developers Curzon De Vere. The company has submitted a planning application to Mid Suffolk District Council, seeking approval to diversify operations at the 150-acre Port One Logistics Park.
If the proposal is approved, the development could contribute an estimated £3.4bn to the county's economy. Curzon De Vere's expansion plan includes a rebranding of the site to Port One Technology Park, introducing new engineering and innovation facilities alongside existing logistics operations.
Matthew Slater, Managing Director of Curzon De Vere, highlighted the park's rapid growth, attributing it to both international demand and the company's vision for Suffolk. "Port One has been growing at pace due in equal parts to demand from international businesses and our own ambitions to build a project that puts Suffolk on the global map and helps drive the local economy forward," he stated.
Sustainable and Technological Developments
The proposed expansion would incorporate a vertical farm growing vanilla, strawberries, and pharmaceutical crops, alongside a farm shop and AI-focused innovation units. Sustainability is also a key aspect of the plan, featuring 50 hectares of solar panels, a dedicated concrete production plant, and the planting of 150,000 trees to enhance the site's green credentials.
Infrastructure and Road Upgrades
To support increased activity at the park, Curzon De Vere has pledged to fund improvements to surrounding roads, including enhancements to junction 52 of the A14, aimed at reducing congestion and improving accessibility.
Mr. Slater expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its potential to boost employment and economic prosperity. "We are excited to be bringing prosperity and jobs to the area and ensuring the region regains its status as a leader in enterprise and industry," he said.
Mid Suffolk District Council leader, Andrew Mellen, welcomed the proposal, noting the district's attractiveness to businesses. "Mid Suffolk is an attractive place to do business, and we have already seen truly innovative and ambitious firms choosing to relocate or expand into the district in the last 12 months. We look forward to hearing more about Port One's plans, and will be encouraging people to have their say when the plans are submitted."
The planning application is currently under review, with further consultations expected before a final decision is made.
Framlingham Technology Centre in Suffolk is redefining sustainability, demonstrating that environmental responsibility and modern business operations can seamlessly coexist. As a frontrunner in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, the Centre is dedicated to minimising its environmental impact while providing a cutting-edge workspace for its tenants.
At the heart of this sustainability effort is the Centre’s significant investment in photovoltaic (PV) technology. This advanced solar energy system supplies the facility with renewable power, greatly reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources. By leveraging solar energy, Framlingham Technology Centre has successfully lowered its carbon footprint and contributed to a more sustainable future.
Beyond environmental benefits, this commitment to sustainability offers tangible advantages for businesses operating within the Centre. By utilising renewable energy, tenants enjoy reduced operational costs, enhancing overall efficiency. Additionally, aligning with an environmentally responsible workspace allows businesses to reinforce their sustainability commitments to clients, stakeholders, and employees.
More than just a workplace, the Centre fosters a community committed to environmental responsibility. Businesses that choose this eco-conscious facility become part of a forward-thinking network that values innovation, long-term success, and a greener planet.
For organisations seeking to champion sustainability while thriving in an innovative environment, Framlingham Technology Centre provides an ideal setting. Take your business to the next level in a workspace designed for a sustainable future.
Aspall Cyder House in Debenham, near Stowmarket, is set to benefit from a £10 million investment aimed at enhancing production and packaging efficiencies. This latest financial boost, coupled with infrastructure upgrades, is expected to modernize operations while maintaining the site's rich heritage.
Damian Mills, head of supply chain at Aspall Cyder, emphasized the significance of the investment: “This plan is an important investment in the future of Aspall Cyder House to help us meet demand for our ciders and vinegars while making strong progress against our sustainability targets.
“Our products have been made at Aspall Cyder House since 1728, and we are committed to keeping it at the heart of our business for many years to come. Molson Coors’ latest investment will ensure we can continue to grow the brand while protecting the site’s heritage and continuing our commitment to the very highest quality.”
Aspall Cyder House has a long-standing legacy dating back to 1728 when Clement Chevallier planted apple trees in a landscape dominated by cereal crops. More than three centuries later, the company continues to produce cyder and cyder vinegars at its original site.
This new investment follows a £13 million expansion in 2022, which increased capacity at the Suffolk-based facility.
Patrick Spencer, MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, expressed his support for the initiative: “Aspall Cyder House is a vital part of our local heritage, and this new investment will ensure its continued prominence for years to come. It fills me with pride to see such renowned brands being produced right here in our region.”
Aspall currently employs over 130 people and prides itself on using 100 percent renewable electricity to create its products. The investment aligns with the sustainability commitments of parent company Molson Coors, which also owns brands such as Carling, Cobra, and Doom Bar. Molson Coors aims to achieve net-zero emissions across all of its sites by 2035.
This latest financial injection underscores Aspall's dedication to balancing innovation with tradition, ensuring the brand's continued growth while remaining deeply rooted in its historic Suffolk home.
Sizewell C executives have hailed the project's first year of construction as a "huge success," with plans to double the current on-site workforce to 2,000 by the end of 2025. Since breaking ground on January 15 last year, the nuclear power plant near Leiston has already engaged nearly 300 UK companies, generating an economic boost of £2.5 billion.
Regional Economic Benefits
A significant portion of the project's investment has been directed toward businesses in the East of England, amounting to more than £100 million. Notably, Ipswich-based Jackson Civil Engineering has secured a £19 million contract to undertake key road projects early next year.
Additionally, Sizewell C has partnered with the Royal British Legion Industries and awarded a two-year licence to Ipswich veterans' community interest company Combat2Coffee to manage the site’s coffee shop.
Progress and Key Milestones
The past year has seen major preparatory work completed, including archaeological surveys, earthworks, and infrastructure enhancements. Construction efforts have also focused on setting up a concrete batching plant, a temporary desalination facility, new site offices, and improvements to road and rail networks. Park and ride sites have also begun development to facilitate smoother transport for the workforce.
A major milestone was reached in April when the project was granted its Nuclear Site Licence. Additionally, Sizewell C made headlines last year with one of the UK’s largest leasing deals, securing one million square feet at Orwell Logistics Park in Ipswich for storage and logistics operations.
Leadership Perspective
Joint Managing Directors Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann described the past year as "incredible," highlighting significant advancements in both on-site and off-site developments.
“With around 1,000 people currently working across our sites, we’re rapidly pushing forward,” they stated. “By the end of this year, we’ll have doubled our workforce and increased our apprenticeship numbers significantly. Our early manufacturing efforts are also progressing well, with 20% of equipment production already completed, ensuring valuable contracts for UK suppliers and fostering economic growth.”
Once operational, Sizewell C—primarily owned by UK taxpayers—will have the capacity to supply energy to six million homes.
Local Impact and Community Support
Brian Crofton, Managing Director of Jackson Civil Engineering, expressed enthusiasm for his company’s involvement in the project: “Being a Suffolk-based firm, we are thrilled to secure this contract. Sizewell C will play a crucial role in boosting the local economy, generating jobs, and upskilling the workforce. We are eager to contribute to this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”
Further community engagement efforts include the £23 million Sizewell C Community Fund, which will allocate approximately £2 million annually to local organisations over the next decade. Nine charities have already received a combined £300,000, with the next round of funding recipients to be announced soon.
Anna Hughes, Interim Chief Executive of Suffolk Community Foundation, emphasized the fund’s potential impact: “This initiative will enhance quality of life and wellbeing across our local communities. We’re excited to see the first grants already making a difference and look forward to witnessing the progress of funded projects.”
Investing in Future Talent
Apprenticeships remain a cornerstone of Sizewell C’s workforce development strategy. In the first year, 60 apprentices joined the program, with plans to train at least 1,500 over the duration of the construction phase.
With its strong economic contributions, regional partnerships, and commitment to workforce development, Sizewell C’s progress marks a significant step toward the UK’s energy security and regional prosperity.
Proposals for a £18 million skills and innovation centre in Stowmarket have been given the green light, marking a significant milestone for the town and the surrounding region.
Planning permission has been granted for the 35,000 sq ft facility at the Gateway 14 business park. This approval paves the way for construction to begin on the ambitious project, which aims to address local skills shortages and support economic growth within Freeport East and the wider Suffolk area.
A Hub for Growth and Innovation
The state-of-the-art centre will feature office spaces for start-ups, collaboration and innovation zones, training and meeting rooms, and a café. It is designed to meet the needs of businesses and local skills providers, with a particular focus on fostering growth in sectors like the green economy and digital/AI technology.
Additional business support services will also be available, making the centre a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. The facility aims to attract businesses of all sizes, from local start-ups and SMEs to international companies, while fostering collaboration and sustainability.
Funding and Regional Impact
The project has received £16.6 million in funding from Freeport East, with Mid Suffolk District Council covering the remaining costs. Once completed, the centre is expected to serve as a key driver of economic growth in Stowmarket and the surrounding areas.
Steve Beel, Chief Executive of Freeport East, celebrated the approval:
“This is great news for Gateway 14 and Freeport East, and an important next step in growing and diversifying the economy of Stowmarket and the wider Mid Suffolk area. Sustainability and enterprise are at the heart of this new centre and will help to attract a range of new businesses to the area, from local start-ups and SMEs to international brands.”
He also highlighted the site's strategic location, positioned between the UK's largest trading gateway at Felixstowe and the world-class knowledge hubs of Cambridge and East Anglia.
A Vision for the Future
Richard Winch, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property at Mid Suffolk District Council, emphasized the project's significance:
“This is such a significant moment for what is an incredibly exciting project and one which will not only be greatly beneficial for Stowmarket, but the much wider area too.
“We have ticked the boxes and jumped the hurdles, now is the time for us to deliver on our promises and bring these plans to life.”
The skills and innovation centre is seen as a cornerstone of the Gateway 14 development, ensuring the site evolves into a vibrant, mixed-use business park.
Ben Oughton, Development Director for site developers Jaynic, added:
“The skills and innovation centre at Gateway 14 ensures that the site is becoming a truly mixed-use scheme attracting a variety of users that will benefit the regional economy in this part of East Anglia.”
Next Steps
While the project's final completion date remains unconfirmed, approval of the plans represents a major step forward in realizing a transformative vision for Stowmarket. The centre is poised to drive innovation, support local talent, and help shape the region’s future in the green economy and cutting-edge technology sectors.
