News

Proposals for new nuclear and clean energy technology park at Berkeley step forward as planning application submitted

On behalf of Chiltern Vital Berkeley, Turley has submitted a planning application for its proposals to establish cutting-edge nuclear and clean energy research and development facilities at the former Gloucestershire Science and Technology Park.

We are providing expert Planning, Strategic Communications, Economics, Design, Sustainability, EIA and Landscape & VIA services to Chiltern Vital Berkeley for the project.

The significant milestone for the project follows the recent announcement that Chiltern Vital Group is in advanced discussions with two investors, Quantum Leap Energy and Astral Systems, to create cutting edge technology centres on the site.

Prior to submission, Chiltern Vital Berkeley conducted an extensive programme of engagement which revealed support for the proposed redevelopment from the local community. 89% of pre-application consultation respondents said that they either ‘strongly agreed’ or ‘agreed’ with the statement “Do you support the proposal to deliver a new world-class science and technology park”.

Stroud District Council will now determine the planning application. If approved, the development will offer up to 600,000 sq ft of new Research and Development (R&D), laboratory, office, manufacturing, and education facilities, creating up to 1,000 jobs, on the brownfield site that was part of the former Berkeley Nuclear Power Station.

Subject to approval, the outline application would agree the principle of redevelopment of the site's general parameters for the redevelopment including building uses, heights, and access.

The detail of the proposals would then be agreed through future detailed Reserved Matter planning applications, ensuring the specific needs of future occupiers are met.

Project Manager, Gerry Hughes, said:

“We’re delighted that we have now submitted our plans to place Berkeley at the forefront of scientific research and innovation. Our ambitions would deliver significant environmental and economic benefits, including the creation of high-tech jobs whilst supporting crucial research and industry. We’ve already got significant interest from some businesses are the forefront of innovation, which just demonstrates how important this project is, not just to Gloucestershire, but to the entire UK.

"I thank everyone who has engaged with us regarding our plans to date, and welcome the support we have received from the local community alongside the investor confidence the project has already achieved.”

1 September 2025