Erith has used over 700kg of explosives in the first stage demolition of four giant concrete plinths as part of work to decommission the turbine hall at Sizewell A.

The contract sets a new record for the largest use of explosives on a nuclear site for conventional demolition purposes in decades.

Over 1,200 holes were drilled into the plinth structures that bore the weight of two turbo generator units weighing 605 tonnes each.

The charges were then set and the plinths wrapped ready for detonation. This method reduced the need for heavy machinery – saving time, cost, reducing noise and dust levels.

Alan Walker, Sizewell A Site Director said: “The detailed planning and stakeholder engagement for this were exemplary. Everyone involved has done an outstanding job and this success demonstrates our commitment to achieving safe, efficient decommissioning processes.”

Large machinery has now removed the weakened material and the overall turbine hall structure is expected to be demolished in Spring 2025 creating a footprint the size of a large football pitch.

Excavator removing rubble from weakened turbine plinth