Wilson Mason were commissioned by The University of Manchester to design a new laboratory to support nuclear research which will be used in a joint venture with the National Decommissioning Authority. The project involved the evaluation of a suitable site and the development of a site masterplan for the client’s facility. The new laboratory is located at the West Lakes Business Park, near Whitehaven and contains an ion accelerator which is contained in a 1.00m thick concrete enclosure, this is supported by office and laboratory accommodation. Due to the differing requirements, the ion accelerator has been housed in a standalone single storey development located adjacent to the two storey laboratory and office building. The ground floor of the two storey laboratory building contains an electronics laboratory, a mechanical prep lab, laser laboratory and wet laboratory. The architectural expression for the facility is strongly influenced by the colour and the texture of the surrounding rugged countryside. The single storey building is clad in standing seam zinc and the two storey office lab building black cladding. The appearance of the envelope mimic sthe rocky outcrops that characterise the Lake District. The design includes the use of a sustainable power source. Wilson Mason have also responded to the University’s desired targets for waste management and have produced a Site Waste Management Plan. The careful specification of materials also ensures waste minimisation.