Contractor named on £70 million decommissioning contract

An overhead image of the Trawsfynydd site in Wales. Photo: NRS

The contract, awarded by Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS), will see Costain partially remove the upper sections of both reactor buildings, lowering them from around 54 m to 25 m.

The four-year programme, due to begin this autumn, is expected to see Costain employ more than 100 people at its peak.

The two reactor buildings, now over 60 years old, have experienced structural wear since decommissioning began in 1991.

Extensive enabling works have already been carried out, including the installation of new internal roofs at a lower level, de-planting of the primary boiler sections, and rerouting of electrical supplies to prepare the buildings for safe and efficient demolition.

NRS said the project represents one of the most complex and ambitious decommissioning undertakings in the UK, and will deliver a major visual transformation of the site.

Sam White, Managing Director, natural resources at Costain, said:  “This work is all part of creating a sustainable future, and we’re looking forward to deepening our relationship with NRS and working collaboratively with our local supply chain to complete this complex decommissioning project to the highest safety and quality standards.” 

David Peattie, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), which owns NRS, added: “This is a tangible step forward in one of the most significant projects in the NDA group’s portfolio and really embodies our commitment to delivering on a safer, cleaner future for generations to come. 

“Reduction of the reactor buildings will not only advance our mission but also create first-of-its-kind opportunities for Wales, showcasing innovation and leadership in nuclear decommissioning.”