Residents across Retford and the surrounding villages are being invited to have their say on the UK's flagship fusion energy programme, which is set to transform the site of the former West Burton power station.
STEP Fusion (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) has officially launched its first public consultation, providing a detailed look at the proposals to build a prototype fusion power plant in North Nottinghamshire.
The project aims to demonstrate that fusion energy; which is the same process that powers the sun; can be used to deliver safe, sustainable, low-carbon electricity to the national grid. The site at West Burton was selected for its existing infrastructure and the region's rich history in power generation.
Why Your Voice Matters
The public consultation is a critical stage in the planning process. Organisers are keen to hear from local residents to help guide the development of the site, which is expected to bring significant investment and new jobs to the area for generations to come.
The consultation period is currently open and will run until 11:59 PM on 11 March 2026.
Upcoming Local Events
To ensure residents can meet the team and ask questions, a series of drop-in events are being held throughout January and February at various locations across the district:
Sturton le Steeple (Sturton Hall): Wed 14 Jan (10am-3pm) & Tue 17 Feb (3pm-8pm)
Gainsborough (The Venue at Roses): Thu 15 Jan (3pm-8pm)
North & South Wheatley Village Hall: Fri 16 Jan (10am-3pm)
Bawtry Town Hall: Sat 17 Jan (11am-4pm)
Lea Village Hall: Tue 20 Jan (11:30am-4:30pm)
South Leverton Memorial Institute: Wed 21 Jan (3pm-8pm)
Hallcroft Community Centre (Retford): Thu 22 Jan (3pm-8pm)
Misterton Methodist Hall: Wed 28 Jan (10am-3pm)
Sturton by Stow Village Hall: Thu 29 Jan (10am-3pm)
Gringley on the Hill Community Centre: Fri 30 Jan (3pm-8pm)
Clarborough Village Hall: Sat 31 Jan (10am-3pm)
Laneham Memorial Hall: Mon 2 Feb (10am-3pm)
How to Get Involved
If you cannot attend an event in person, you can still view the proposals and submit your feedback through the following channels:
Online: Visit stepfusion.com/consultation to complete the feedback form.
Post: Send your thoughts to 'FREEPOST STEP FUSION' (no stamp required).
Email: Contact the team at communications.step@ukifs.uk.
This is a landmark project for the Retford area, marking the transition from traditional coal-fired power to the cutting edge of green energy technology. Don't miss the chance to influence how this development takes shape in your community.
