Dounreay decommissioning framework contracts awarded

Wednesday, 24 April 2019

The decommissioning services framework covers construction of new-build projects required to enable the decommissioning of the Dounreay site; deplanting, decommissioning, decontamination and demolition of redundant facilities; and all associated project management, controls, engineering, design, safety case and site remediation requirements.

Six framework contracts have been awarded, bringing together the capabilities of 28 different companies, initially for up to four years with the possibility of extensions of up to an additional three years.

DSRL said the companies, ranging from small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) within the local community to some of the industry's largest players, will now compete in 'mini competitions' for distinct packages of work that move the site towards its ultimate closure.

In addition to technical submissions, bidders were also required to consider how they will help create a positive legacy in Caithness and North Sutherland with a number of plans put forward including support for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and SME development schemes.

Among the selected bidders are the Dounreay Wood Alliance, led by Wood, as prime contractor, partnered with sub-contractors Orano, GDES and Aquila. The Nuclear Decommissioning Ltd - a joint venture including professional services firm WYG plc, Shepley Engineers Ltd, REACT Engineering, and James Fisher Nuclear Ltd - has also been selected. The Dounreay Decommissioning Framework alliance - comprising Cavendish Nuclear, JGC Engineering and Technical Services, KDC Contractors (Veolia) and BAM Nuttall - is also among them.

"This agreement will deliver real and visible signs of progress towards achieving our mission," said head of DSRL's commercial services Stephen Adamson. "It is about forming long-term partnerships so that the successful companies can work alongside our own Dounreay staff, ensuring a first-class team combining the best site skills and experience with the wider industry knowledge and innovation that the supply chain can offer."

The Dounreay site in Caithness, Scotland, was the UK's centre for experimental fast breeder research and development from 1954 until 1994. It is home to three reactors and supporting facilities, including reprocessing plants.

DSRL is the site licence company responsible for the clean-up and demolition of the Dounreay site. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Cavendish Dounreay Partnership Ltd, a consortium of Cavendish Nuclear, CH2M and AECOM. It is funded by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority to deliver the site closure programme.