Sizewell C Kicks Off £250 Million Earthworks Project for Nuclear Plant Construction

Sizewell C has initiated the procurement process for a significant earthworks contract, valued at up to £250 million. This crucial step involves the excavation of over 3.2 million cubic metres of material to prepare the site for the construction of the new nuclear power plant in Suffolk.

Key Takeaways

A £250 million earthworks contract has been launched by Sizewell C.
The project requires the excavation of approximately 3.3 million cubic metres of material.
The contract duration is two years, commencing in January 2027.
Bidders must submit applications by 31 October 2025.

Preparing the Ground for a New Nuclear Era

The contract encompasses the removal of various materials, including made ground, peat, and crag sand, from the main construction area. Approximately 3.3 million cubic metres of this excavated material will be transported via a dedicated haul road to designated stockpiling or disposal zones within a temporary construction area. This strategic approach allows for the backfilling of cleared zones to commence simultaneously with ongoing excavation, thereby accelerating the construction timeline for Units 1 and 2 of the £38 billion project.

Scope of the Earthworks Contract

Beyond bulk excavation, the contract also includes essential tasks such as material suitability testing, shaping and compacting of stockpiles, and rigorous compliance monitoring to adhere to the project’s quality plan. Transport operations will be managed using all-terrain dump trucks operating on an access road overseen by the Civil Works Alliance, which comprises Balfour Beatty, Laing O’Rourke, and Bouygues Travaux Publics.

Project Timeline and Procurement

The two-year works contract is scheduled to begin on 4 January 2027 and conclude on 8 December 2028. Interested parties have until 31 October 2025 to submit their applications through the CompeteFor portal. This earthworks package is one of several major contracts being awarded as Sizewell C, developed by EDF and its partners, progresses towards full construction mobilisation following the UK government’s final investment decision in July.