Sellafield Ltd announced on September 30, 2026, that it has selected successful partners for its new Project and Asset Care Execution (PACE) delivery framework. The framework holds a potential value of up to £3.6 billion and will handle both routine maintenance and complex construction across the West Cumbrian nuclear site.

Pending formal contract execution, the work will be divided into two separate lots. OneAxIoM, a joint venture combining Amentum Clean Energy Limited and Mitie Ltd, has been selected for Lot 1. This division covers process and mechanical handling nuclear facilities across Spent Fuel Management and Retrievals East River. Lot 2 was identified for HOCHTIEF Infrastructure UK to support batch specialist and decommissioning nuclear facilities spanning Special Nuclear Materials, nuclear infrastructure, and remediation.

The PACE structure aims to improve value for money through standardised processes and a scalable output-focused delivery model. The framework will run for an initial nine years, with an option to extend for six years, potentially stretching operations through to 2041. PACE forms a core component of Sellafield Ltd’s Overarching Acquisition Strategy, succeeding the Design Service Alliance (DSA) and Integrated Asset Care (IAC) frameworks. Mobilisation starts once contracts are formally signed.

Off-site construction and inspection form a central strategy for the framework to streamline installation. For Lot 1, an existing facility in Egremont will be refurbished using infrastructure established under the IAC framework. Meanwhile, Lot 2 partners are evaluating new off-site locations to support efficient project delivery and regional supply chain involvement.

The framework mandates support for the Sellafield Social Impact, Multiplied (SIX) strategy, focusing on apprenticeships, local jobs, and small and medium enterprise (SME) participation in the supply chain.

James Riddick, chief commercial officer, Sellafield Ltd said: “The PACE framework is a major part of our overarching acquisition strategy, and a lot of work has gone into preparing for this exciting long-term partnership. We are looking forward to working together on the positive opportunities for both our mission and our community.”

Matthew Johns, Chief Engineer, Sellafield Ltd commented: “Our mission is to create a clean, safe and secure environment for future generations. To do this we must ensure our assets remain safe, reliable and fit for the future. This agreement is an important step to strengthen our asset care capability. It will provide the expertise we need to maintain a high standard of safe and efficient delivery. We look forward to working collaboratively with OneAxIoM and HOCHTIEF. We will build a framework that delivers safe, effective and sustainable outcomes. These will benefit Sellafield and the wider community.”

John Heller, Chief Executive Officer of Amentum, said: “PACE provides a significant, long-term growth opportunity for Amentum at Sellafield, building on our existing capability and relationships while also enabling us to deliver a broader, integrated full lifecycle scope on higher value projects across engineering and asset care.”

Salli Shapcott, Managing Director, Critical Environments, Mitie, said: “Building on our long-standing relationship with Sellafield, this framework will see Mitie continue supporting Sellafield’s spent fuel management and retrievals programme through the joint venture with Amentum. Together, we will provide end-to-end asset lifecycle support, bringing together engineering, project delivery, plant modification and ongoing asset care services to ensure critical facilities across the site continue to operate safely and reliably.”

Peter Hingott, HOCHTIEF Infrastructure CEO, commented: “Our appointment to the PACE framework builds on the successful work we have delivered at Sellafield through the Infrastructure Delivery Partnership and reflects the trust our customers place in our people. We look forward to working closely with Sellafield over the long term, supporting the site’s critical mission and creating lasting value for local communities, supply chain partners and the wider UK economy.”