Using StoryMaps to develop the vision for STEP at West Burton

We are delighted to announce that we’ve recently produced an online StoryMap, on behalf of UKAEA, to help develop the vision, enable discussions and influence early stage design for STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) at West Burton, Bassetlaw, Nottinghamshire.

STEP is an ambitious UKAEA programme that aims to demonstrate the ability to generate net energy from fusion and explore its commercial viability, via the construction of a prototype fusion energy plant at West Burton campus. Given its size and complexity, the STEP project is expected to generate a significant number of job opportunities in construction, operations and in the supply chain. The facility is expected to attract a number of R&D and start-up companies to co-locate on the campus.  

The journey through the StoryMap starts with an overview of fusion energy, the STEP programme, and the planning context, before providing a summary of the regional and local context of the site. It then identifies four thematic principles, that will support the vision for the West Burton campus, in line with national policy objectives and local ambitions. These are translated into eight spatial principles / sketchy illustrations that basically form the high level concept for the campus. Finally, the StoryMap touches on the evolution and likely phasing of the development.

The StoryMap has been created using ArcGIS stories and is a tool that offers a more user friendly and accessible alternative to the traditional, hard copy vision documents.

The above piece of work has now been published on UKAEA’s website and is currently being used for engagement purposes.