Global consultancy Atkins has been awarded a £5m contract for preparatory and enabling works at the Sizewell C site. It will be the first programme of construction work to commence at the proposed nuclear power station, which will be located next to the existing Sizewell B power station, on the Suffolk coast. 

The site will comprise of two UK EPR™ units with an electrical output of approximately 1,670 megawatts (MW) per unit, giving a total site capacity of approximately 3,340MW. Once operational, Sizewell C will be able to generate enough electricity to supply approximately six million (20%) of the UK’s homes.

The enabling works are defined as all work necessary to prepare the main development site for the execution of the main civil works and marine works construction. Overall objectives include:

• To determine the optimal layout and sequence of the construction of the site, to ensure safety, efficiency and minimal impact on surrounding villages.
• To minimize the environmental impact on the surrounding area during construction, including the design of a dedicated crossing through a designated conservation area.
• To specify future site facilities and infrastructure required until commercial operation of the power station commences.
• To determine the most cost-effective construction techniques and innovative design solutions, and maximise replication from Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, supporting EDF in their goal in reducing the cost of construction for Sizewell C by 20%. 
• To deliver information required for the application of the Development Consent Order, the Nuclear Site License and other key permits.

Andrew Smart, project delivery director at Atkins, said: “This programme of work will see us combine our extensive experience in the nuclear new build sector with the use of innovative digital tools. Our delivery model will involve a great amount of collaboration and alliance working, to drive efficiencies for EDF and their ECI contractors. To do this, we will draw upon our long-standing history of working within the nuclear new build industry, including Hinkley Point C, to deliver engineering solutions that can reduce costs and speed up the construction process.”

Jim Crawford, Sizewell C project development director, said: “Sizewell C is progressing well with Stage 4 consultation underway. The experience Atkins’ has gained at Hinkley Point C will help ensure we have the site prepared and ready for the construction of the power station, if planning consent is granted.”